UK state pension, SIPPs and workplace pensions, explained
How much state pension you could get, what a SIPP actually is, and how to find a lost workplace pot. Written like a knowledgeable friend, not a product brochure.
Calculate the minimum workplace pension contribution at your salary
Compare employer, employee-and-relief and total minimums across 15 salary points, with every source and formula shown.
See how relief at source grosses up a payment
Separate what the provider adds from possible extra relief you may need to claim.
Retirement incomeSee the gap between your target and forecast
Bring together State Pension, private pots, contributions and other secure income using assumptions you can change.
ContributionsSee what actually enters the pension
Compare your contribution, employer money and an explicit tax-relief assumption.
Nest chargesTurn 1.8% + 0.3% into pounds
Use the calculator, inspect six worked examples and download the transparent source table.
No jargon
Plain English, always
No sales pitch
Explains, does not sell
UK specific
Written for UK rules
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View all guides →State Pension UK: How Much Will I Get, and When?
The state pension amount depends on your National Insurance record, not your earnings. Here is how it actually works, and how to check your own number.
Read guideWhat Is a SIPP? A Simple Explanation
A SIPP is a type of personal pension that gives you more control over where your money is invested. Here is what that actually means in practice.
Read guideHow to Find a Lost Pension in the UK: Step by Step
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Read guideWhat Is a Workplace Pension and How Does It Work?
A workplace pension is a savings pot for retirement that you and your employer both pay into. Here is exactly how the money moves and where it goes.
Read guideHow to Check Your State Pension Forecast and National Insurance Record
Your state pension depends on your National Insurance record, and it is worth checking both well before you plan to retire. Here is exactly how.
Read guideCan I Take My Pension Early in the UK?
There is a minimum age before you can normally access a private pension — but a few genuine exceptions exist. Here is how it works.
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