Annual allowance
The maximum amount you can contribute to all your pensions in a tax year while still receiving tax relief — £60,000 for 2025/26.
The annual allowance limits total pension input across all schemes in a tax year: your personal contributions, employer contributions, and any tax relief added. Exceed it and you face a tax charge on the excess at your marginal rate.
For high earners with adjusted income above £260,000, the allowance tapers down to a minimum of £10,000. If you've flexibly accessed a DC pension, the Money Purchase Annual Allowance (MPAA) restricts DC contributions to £10,000.
You can carry forward unused allowance from the previous three tax years, potentially allowing contributions of £180,000+ in a single year.
This calculator provides estimates based on 2025/26 tax rates and is not financial advice. Scottish taxpayers are subject to different income tax rates and bands. The calculations assume your salary is your only source of income and do not account for benefits in kind or other taxable income.
For personalised guidance on your pension contributions, speak to an FCA-regulated financial adviser. You can find one via Unbiased or VouchedFor.