Results are estimates for guidance only and do not constitute financial advice. Always consult HMRC or a qualified accountant for your specific circumstances.
How to Use the National Insurance Calculator
- Enter your annual salary or profit — type your gross annual salary if employed, or your net profit if self-employed. This is the figure before any tax deductions.
- Select your employment type — choose "Employed" for PAYE workers to see both employee and employer NI, or "Self-Employed" to see Class 2 and Class 4 contributions.
- Confirm the tax year — the calculator defaults to 2025/26, which uses the latest HMRC rates and thresholds.
- Click "Calculate" — the tool displays a full breakdown of your NI contributions by band, including monthly and weekly equivalents.
How National Insurance Works
National Insurance is a mandatory contribution that funds the UK State Pension, NHS, and social security benefits. It is separate from income tax and has its own thresholds and rates. Employees pay Class 1 NI, while self-employed individuals pay Class 2 and Class 4. Employers also make contributions on top of your salary.
| Type | Earnings Band | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Employee Class 1 | £12,570 – £50,270 | 8% |
| Employee Class 1 | Above £50,270 | 2% |
| Employer Class 1 | Above £9,100 | 13.8% |
| Self-Employed Class 2 | Flat rate | £3.45/week |
| Self-Employed Class 4 | £12,570 – £50,270 | 6% |
| Self-Employed Class 4 | Above £50,270 | 2% |
How much National Insurance do I pay on £30,000?
On a £30,000 salary in 2025/26, you pay employee NI of 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £30,000, which is £1,394.40 per year (£116.20 per month). Your employer also pays 13.8% on earnings above £9,100, which is £2,884.20.
What is the NI threshold for 2025/26?
The primary threshold for employee NI in 2025/26 is £12,570 per year (£1,048 per month). You do not pay NI on earnings below this amount. The secondary threshold for employers is £9,100 per year.
How does self-employed NI work?
Self-employed individuals pay Class 2 NI at £3.45 per week if profits exceed the Small Profits Threshold. They also pay Class 4 NI at 6% on profits between £12,570 and £50,270, and 2% on profits above £50,270.
What does National Insurance pay for?
National Insurance contributions fund the State Pension, NHS, unemployment benefits, and other welfare programmes. Your NI record also determines your eligibility for the State Pension — you typically need 35 qualifying years for the full amount.
Is NI the same as income tax?
No. National Insurance and income tax are separate deductions with different rates, thresholds, and purposes. Income tax funds general government spending, while NI specifically funds social security benefits and the NHS. They are calculated independently on your payslip.
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