Employees pay Class 1 National Insurance on earnings above the primary threshold. For 2025/26 the rate is 8 percent on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, and 2 percent on anything above that. This tool estimates the annual and monthly amount from your salary. Self-employed people pay different classes of NI.
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Frequently asked questions
Is National Insurance the same as income tax?
No — they are separate deductions with different thresholds. NI helps fund the State Pension and some benefits, and you stop paying it once you reach State Pension age.
Do the self-employed pay this?
No. The self-employed pay Class 4 (and sometimes Class 2) NI on profits, at different rates. This tool covers employees.