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How to Calculate Pension

What is Pension?

A workplace pension accumulates contributions from both employee and employer over a working career, invested for long-term growth. Auto-enrolment (mandatory since 2012) means most UK workers contribute to a pension automatically. The minimum total contribution is 8% of qualifying earnings (3% employer, 5% employee).

Formula

Future value: FV = Existing balance × (1+r)^n + Monthly contribution × ((1+r)^n − 1)/r
FV
Existing balance × (1+r)^n + Monthly contribution × ((1+r)^n − 1)/r — Existing balance × (1+r)^n + Monthly contribution × ((1+r)^n − 1)/r

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1Monthly contributions are invested (typically in a default fund) and grow tax-free
  2. 2Future value: FV = Existing balance × (1+r)^n + Monthly contribution × ((1+r)^n − 1)/r
  3. 3Tax relief on contributions: basic rate taxpayers get 20% relief (government tops up £1 for every £0.80 contributed)
  4. 4Annual allowance: £60,000 (2024/25) — contributions above this face a tax charge
  5. 5State pension: £221.20/week (2024/25) — separate from workplace pension

Worked Examples

Input
£40,000 salary, 5% employee + 3% employer, 30 years, 6% growth
Result
~£280,000 pot
Est. retirement income: £11,200/year (4% rule)
Input
£60,000 salary, 8% + 5% = 13%, 25 years, 7% growth
Result
~£720,000 pot
Including existing £50K balance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pension Calc?

A workplace pension accumulates contributions from both employee and employer over a working career, invested for long-term growth. Auto-enrolment (mandatory since 2012) means most UK workers contribute to a pension automatically

How accurate is the Pension Calc calculator?

The calculator uses the standard published formula for pension calc. Results are accurate to the precision of the inputs you provide. For financial, medical, or legal decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.

What units does the Pension Calc calculator use?

This calculator works with inches, British pounds, percentages. You can enter values in the units shown — the calculator handles all conversions internally.

What formula does the Pension Calc calculator use?

The core formula is: Future value: FV = Existing balance × (1+r)^n + Monthly contribution × ((1+r)^n − 1)/r. Each step in the calculation is shown so you can verify the result manually.

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