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The UK tax system can be confusing, especially with income tax and National Insurance both deducted from your pay. This guide explains exactly how much you keep from your gross salary in 2026.
UK Income Tax Bands for 2026
- Personal Allowance: £12,570 (tax-free)
- Basic Rate (20%): £12,571–£50,270
- Higher Rate (40%): £50,271–£125,140
- Additional Rate (45%): Over £125,140
Note: The personal allowance is reduced by £1 for every £2 of income over £100,000, disappearing completely at £125,140.
National Insurance Contributions (NIC) 2026
- Class 1 NIC: 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270
- Higher Rate NIC: 2% on earnings above £50,270
UK Take-Home Pay Examples for 2026
- £30,000 salary: ~£24,040 take-home (80%)
- £50,000 salary: ~£37,700 take-home (75%)
- £75,000 salary: ~£51,000 take-home (68%)
- £100,000 salary: ~£67,000 take-home (67%)
Impact of Student Loans on Take-Home Pay
If you have a student loan, Plan 2 repayments are 9% on income above £27,295. At a £35,000 salary this is an additional £695/year deducted through payroll, reducing take-home pay further.
Use our Salary Converter to convert between hourly, weekly, monthly, and annual pay. For a detailed tax breakdown, use our Tax Estimator.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.