What are NHS pension contribution rates in 2026/27?

Six tiers from 5.2% (up to £13,259) to 12.5% (£67,669+). Thresholds rose 3.8% with CPI on 1 April 2026; the percentages are unchanged since April 2024.

Is the NHS pension salary sacrifice?

No. It uses a net pay arrangement: you get income-tax relief on contributions, but National Insurance is still calculated on full pay.

How much does a Band 5 nurse pay into the pension?

Band 5 entry (£32,073) sits in the 8.3% tier — about £221 a month. Employer contribution is 23.7% on top.

NHS pension calculator 2026/27

Pick an Agenda for Change band — see your 2026/27 member tier, monthly contribution and take-home after tax and NI.

Member rate £28,855 – £35,155

8.3%

£222 / month from you · employer adds £633 (23.7%)

Take-home / month: £2,040
Your pension / year: £2,662
Tax + NI: £4,928

England & Wales 2026/27 tiers (NHSBSA). Net pay arrangement: tax relief on contributions, NI still on full pay. Not a payslip. NHSBSA rates.

Member contribution tiers from 1 April 2026

England & Wales (NHSBSA). Based on actual pensionable pay, not whole-time equivalent.

Pensionable pay	Rate
Up to £13,259	5.2%
£13,260 – £28,854	6.5%
£28,855 – £35,155	8.3%
£35,156 – £52,778	9.8%
£52,779 – £67,668	10.7%
£67,669+	12.5%

Take-home at popular bands (England AfC)

Band	Gross	Pension	Take-home / year
Band 5 entry	£32,073	8.3%	£24,483
Band 6 entry	£39,959	9.8%	£29,157
Band 7 entry	£49,387	9.8%	£35,206

Any salary take-home calculator →

FAQs

What are NHS pension contribution rates in 2026/27?: Six tiers from 5.2% (up to £13,259) to 12.5% (£67,669+). Thresholds rose 3.8% with CPI on 1 April 2026; the percentages are unchanged since April 2024.
Is the NHS pension salary sacrifice?: No. It uses a net pay arrangement: you get income-tax relief on contributions, but National Insurance is still calculated on full pay.
How much does a Band 5 nurse pay into the pension?: Band 5 entry (£32,073) sits in the 8.3% tier — about £221 a month. Employer contribution is 23.7% on top.

NHS pension calculator 2026/27

Member contribution tiers from 1 April 2026

Take-home at popular bands (England AfC)

FAQs

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