Understanding your pension contributions under the UK's auto-enrolment rules is essential for both employers and employees. These contributions help secure a better retirement for workers and are a legal obligation for employers.
With changes in contribution rates and thresholds over time, it's crucial to calculate the correct amounts for 2026. This calculator provides an accurate breakdown of contributions based on salary and employment status, helping ensure compliance and clarity for all parties involved.
How the calculation works
The UK pension auto-enrolment calculation is based on the employee's qualifying earnings, which fall between the lower and upper earnings limits. For 2026, the government sets specific contribution rates for employees and employers.
Employee contributions are a percentage of the qualifying earnings, matched by employer contributions, with the total contribution being the sum of both. The calculator uses the current rates for 2026 and applies them to the input salary to give the contributions for both parties.
Qualifying earnings are defined as earnings between £6,240 (Lower Earnings Limit) and £50,270 (Upper Earnings Limit) as of 2026. If earnings are below the Lower Earnings Limit, no contributions are due. If above the Upper Earnings Limit, contributions are calculated only on earnings up to that threshold.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the employee's monthly or annual salary.
- Select the employee's employment status (full-time, part-time, or self-employed if applicable).
- The calculator will automatically apply the 2026 contribution rates for both employer and employee.
- Review the breakdown of contributions based on qualifying earnings.
- Use the results to understand your or your employees' pension contributions for planning and compliance purposes.