Pension tax relief calculator
Pensions run on a simple trade: contributions get income tax back, and workplace schemes add employer money on top. See what a monthly contribution really costs you — and how much actually lands in the pot. The teal line is your pension; the grey line is what it cost you.
Your numbers
What the same money becomes
Illustration of contributions only (no investment growth) — not a forecast or recommendation. Tax relief depends on your circumstances and rules can change.
Assumptions and method
- Models "relief at source": your provider adds basic-rate (20%) relief automatically, so £80 from you becomes £100 in the pension. Higher and additional-rate payers reclaim the rest through self-assessment — shown here as reducing your real cost.
- Uses UK-wide tax bands; Scottish income tax rates differ. "Net pay" and salary-sacrifice schemes deliver relief differently (and salary sacrifice also saves National Insurance) — the totals are broadly similar but not identical.
- Relief is limited by the annual allowance (£60,000 for most people, less for very high earners or after flexibly accessing a pension) and by your relevant earnings.
- The chart accumulates contributions only, with no investment growth — add growth with the compound growth calculator.
Want the system behind the numbers? Read pensions explained — and when it's time to turn a pot into income, retirement income options.
Reminder: this tool is general education. It doesn't know your circumstances and isn't a personal recommendation or tax advice. For decisions, consult an FCA-authorised adviser — our toolkit shows how to find one.