Tax Bracket Calculator UK 2026
Find out which UK tax bracket you're in and see your marginal tax rate versus your effective rate. Shows how much income tax falls in each HMRC band for the 2026 tax year — including the National Insurance combined marginal rate.
You are in the
20% tax bracket
Basic rate
Personal Allowance: £12,570
| Band | Rate | Tax in band |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Allowance | 0% | £0 |
| Basic rate← you | 20% | £4,486 |
| Higher rate | 40% | — |
| Additional rate | 45% | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
What tax bracket am I in in the UK?
For 2026: earnings up to £12,570 are covered by the personal allowance (0%); £12,571–£50,270 is the basic rate (20%); £50,271–£125,140 is the higher rate (40%); above £125,140 is the additional rate (45%). Enter your salary above to see your bracket.
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal rate is the rate on your next £1 of income — the rate of your highest bracket. Your effective rate is total tax divided by total income, always lower because the first portions of income are taxed at lower rates or are tax-free.
Does being in a higher bracket tax all my income at that rate?
No. The UK uses a progressive marginal system. Only income within each band is taxed at that band's rate. Earning £1 more into the higher rate band only taxes that extra pound at 40%, not your entire salary.
What are the UK income tax bands for 2026?
0% up to £12,570 (personal allowance); 20% basic rate on £12,571–£50,270; 40% higher rate on £50,271–£125,140; 45% additional rate above £125,140. If income exceeds £100,000, the personal allowance tapers away, creating an effective 60% marginal rate between £100,000–£125,140.
Do tax bands include National Insurance?
No. Income tax bands cover income tax only. National Insurance Class 1 is separate: 8% on earnings £12,570–£50,270 and 2% above. Combined, your effective marginal rate in the basic band is 28% (20% + 8%) and 42% in the higher band (40% + 2%).