YF AccountingLast updated: 16 June 2026
3 min read
Paying taxes is an integral part of life. One of the most common systems used for this purpose is the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. This method of tax collection is designed to make the process as seamless as possible for employees, ensuring taxes are paid accurately and on time. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the intricacies of the PAYE tax system, helping you understand how it works and how your taxes are calculated.
What is PAYE?
PAYE stands for Pay As You Earn. It’s a system implemented by the UK government where income tax and National Insurance contributions are deducted directly from your salary or pension before you receive it. This system simplifies the tax payment process for millions of people, ensuring that the correct tax amounts are paid throughout the financial year, which runs from April 6th to April 5th the following year.
How PAYE Works
The process starts with your employer, who acts as the collector on behalf of HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Each time you are paid, your employer calculates and deducts the appropriate amount of tax and National Insurance. The calculations are based on your tax code and the amount of income you’ve received so far in the tax year.
Tax Codes
Understanding your tax code is crucial for grasping how your tax is calculated. Your tax code is determined by HMRC and is sent to your employer. It reflects your personal allowance (the amount you can earn tax-free each year) and any additional allowances or deductions that apply to your situation. The standard tax code for the 2026/27 tax year for most people is 1257L, indicating a tax-free personal allowance of £12,570.
Calculating Your Tax
The amount of tax you pay is progressive, meaning it increases in percentage as your income increases. The UK operates under a band system, where different portions of your income are taxed at different rates:
• Personal Allowance: Up to £12,570 is tax-free.
• Basic Rate: Income from £12,571 to £50,270 is taxed at 20%.
• Higher Rate: Income from £50,271 to £125,140 is taxed at 40%.
• Additional Rate: Income over £125,140 is taxed at 45%.
It is also worth knowing that the Personal Allowance is gradually reduced once your income goes over £100,000 – by £1 for every £2 above that figure – and is lost entirely by the time your income reaches £125,140. These figures apply to England, Wales and Northern Ireland; if you live in Scotland, different income tax bands and rates apply.
National Insurance Contributions
In addition to income tax, PAYE also includes National Insurance contributions, which are calculated differently. These contributions provide you with certain benefits and the state pension. The rate you pay depends on your employment status and how much you earn.
For employees, earnings between £12,570 and £50,270 are charged Class 1 National Insurance at 8%, with earnings above £50,270 charged at 2%.
Example of PAYE Calculation
Let’s break down a simple example for someone with a standard tax code of 1257L, earning £35,000 a year:
Personal Allowance: The first £12,570 is tax-free.
Taxable Income: The remaining £22,430 (£35,000 – £12,570) falls into the basic rate band and is taxed at 20%.
Thus, the annual income tax would be 20% of £22,430, which equals £4,486. Your employer would deduct this amount in equal portions from your salary throughout the year, alongside your National Insurance contributions.
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Final Thoughts
The PAYE system aims to make tax payments straightforward, ensuring that individuals pay the right amount of tax without the need for an annual tax return. However, it’s important to regularly check your payslips and tax code to ensure the correct amounts are being deducted. If you’re unsure about your tax situation or believe there might be an error, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional accountant or reach out to HMRC for guidance.
Understanding the basics of how PAYE tax is calculated can empower you to better manage your finances and anticipate your take-home pay. Remember, staying informed about your taxes is not just about compliance; it’s about making the most of your hard-earned money. If you would like a hand, get in touch – I am always happy to help.
Founder of YF Accounting — a fixed-fee, fully digital accountancy practice in Manchester serving SMEs, sole traders and landlords across the UK. One point of contact, unlimited support, no surprise bills.
Related reading
Do I Need to File a Tax Return? A 2025/26 Guide for the UK
Allowable Expenses for the Self-Employed: What You Can Claim in 2026/27
Selling Online and Side Hustles: When You Need to Tell HMRC in 2026This article is part of our Payroll & PAYE guide. See the full topic for related reads.