NHS Pay Rise Calculator 2026/27

Each year, the independent NHS Pay Review Body (NHSPRB) makes recommendations to the Government on pay for Agenda for Change staff. The Government then decides the actual pay award, which typically takes effect from 1 April.

A pay rise increases your gross salary, but your take-home pay doesn't go up by the same amount. That's because higher earnings mean you pay more in income tax, National Insurance, and — if you're in the scheme — NHS pension contributions. This calculator shows you exactly how much extra money you'll actually see in your bank account.

Why your take-home is less than the headline figure

• Income tax: 20% on earnings between £12,571 and £50,270, rising to 40% above that. A pay rise that pushes you over a threshold means part of the increase is taxed at a higher rate.
• National Insurance: 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, then 2% above. Similar marginal rate effects apply.
• NHS Pension: Contribution tiers range from 5% to 12.25%. A pay rise could move you into a higher tier, increasing your pension contribution rate on all pensionable pay.

What about backpay?

If the pay rise is announced after 1 April, you'll receive backpay for the months since the start of the financial year. Backpay is subject to normal tax and NI deductions. The amount shown by this calculator is the annual difference — divide by 12 and multiply by the number of backdated months to estimate your backpay.

Who is eligible?

Staff employed directly by NHS organisations on Agenda for Change contracts are automatically eligible. This includes nurses, healthcare assistants, allied health professionals, admin staff, and most other NHS roles. Doctors, dentists, and very senior managers are on separate pay frameworks. Staff employed by GP practices or contracted services may need separate negotiations.