Tax Rates

Income tax rates

The table below sets out the main rates and rate limits for 2012/13:

Rate Classification Salary Range Tax Rate
Basic Rate £0 - £34,370 20%
Higher Rate £34,371 - £150,000 40%
Additional Rate Over £150,001 50%

The rates for 2013/14 will be:

Rate Classification Salary Range Tax Rate
Basic Rate £0 - £32,010 20%
Higher Rate £32,011 - £150,000 40%
Additional Rate Over £150,001 45%

National Insurance Rates

National Insurance contributions are paid by employees to build up their entitlement to certain state benefits, including the State Pension. Contributions paid are dependent upon earnings:

Earnings Per Month Percentage Paid Additional Contribution
£646 - £3,354 12% Earnings between £646 - £3,354 none
over £3,354 12% Earnings between £646 - £3,354 2% on earnings > £3,354

Payment of contributions cease when State Pension is reached; currently set at 65.  Reduced rates of National Insurance apply if you are contracted out of the State Pension Scheme. 

Personal Allowance Rates

This is the amount of income you can receive each year without having to pay tax on it.  Until you reach the State pension age the personal allowance thresholds are:

Financial Year Earnings Threshold
2012-13 £8,105
2013-14 £9,440

More information on all of the above rates can be found on the HRMC website http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/.