Workplace Pension Calculator
Calculate how much your workplace pension will grow based on contribution rate and years to retirement.
Minimum is usually 0.5%, though most people contribute 5-10%
Minimum employer matching is 3% on band earnings
Check if your employer offers salary sacrifice. This provides additional National Insurance savings.
Conservative: 4%, Moderate: 6%, Optimistic: 8%
Understanding Auto Enrolment in the UK
Every employer in the UK must automatically enrol eligible staff into a workplace pension scheme and pay money into it. The minimum total contribution is 8% of your qualifying earnings: 5% from you, and 3% from your employer.
Your employer might pay more than the legal minimum, and they might calculate contributions on your full salary rather than just qualifying earnings. A workplace pension calculator (like this one) cuts through the confusion and shows exactly how much is deposited each month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the workplace pension a legal requirement?
Yes, auto enrolment is a legal duty for employers. However, employees have the right to opt out manually if they wish. Opting out is rarely recommended, as you lose your employer's matched contribution - essentially turning down tax-free free money.
How are pensionable earnings calculated?
For 2026/27, qualifying or 'pensionable' earnings are the portion of your salary between £6,240 and £50,270. If your salary is £30,000, your qualifying earnings are £23,760. Your 5% contribution is calculated purely on this middle slice.