National Insurance calculator
Estimate the National Insurance you’ll pay in 2025/26, as an employee (Class 1) or as a self-employed person (Class 4).
Your estimate
National Insurance per year
£0
- Main rate band
- £0
- Upper band (2%)
- £0
Uses 2025/26 thresholds (£12,570 and £50,270). Employee figures are Class 1 primary contributions; self-employed figures are Class 4 (Class 2 is generally treated as paid above the threshold).
In plain English
The terms, explained
New to this? Here’s what the words on this page actually mean.
- National Insurance
- A tax on earnings that helps pay for the State Pension and some benefits.
- Class 1 vs Class 4
- Employees pay Class 1; the self-employed pay Class 4. Both work in bands.
- Primary threshold
- You start paying NI on earnings above £12,570 a year.
- Upper earnings limit
- Above £50,270 the rate drops to 2%.
FAQ
National Insurance calculator, your questions answered
How much National Insurance do I pay?
Employees pay 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, then 2% above. The self-employed pay Class 4 at 6% then 2% on profit over the same thresholds. The calculator shows your figure for either.
What is the National Insurance threshold for 2025/26?
You start paying National Insurance on earnings (or profits) above £12,570 a year. The rate then drops from the main rate to 2% on anything above £50,270.
Do the self-employed pay National Insurance?
Yes, Class 4 National Insurance on profits, at 6% then 2%. Class 2 is generally treated as paid where your profits are above the threshold, so most self-employed people no longer pay a separate flat charge.
Does National Insurance count towards my State Pension?
Yes. Paying, or being credited with, National Insurance builds your entitlement to the State Pension and certain benefits. We can check your record and contributions as part of your tax planning.
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