Question 1

How much do I contribute to the NHS pension?

Accepted Answer

NHS pension contributions range from 5.2% to 12.5% depending on your pensionable salary. The employer contributes 23.7% on top.

Question 2

Is the NHS pension worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the NHS pension is widely considered one of the best in the UK. It's a defined benefit scheme where the employer contributes 23.7%, making the total contribution over 30% of salary.

Question 3

What if I have been in multiple NHS pension schemes?

Accepted Answer

If you have benefits in the 1995, 2008 and 2015 schemes, each portion is calculated under its own rules and paid at the relevant retirement age. You will receive a combined pension made up of separate building blocks, and NHS Pensions can provide a total benefits statement on request.

Question 4

Can I buy extra NHS pension?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the NHS Pension Scheme offers an Additional Pension facility that lets you buy up to £7,352 of extra annual pension (2026/27 limit). You can pay in a lump sum or through regular payroll deductions, and the cost depends on your age when you start.

Question 5

What is the NHS death-in-service benefit?

Accepted Answer

If you die while in active NHS pensionable employment, a lump sum of twice your pensionable pay is paid to your nominated beneficiary. A pension may also be payable to your surviving spouse, civil partner or qualifying partner and any eligible children.

Question 6

Can I opt out of the NHS pension?

Accepted Answer

You can opt out at any time by completing the relevant form, but it is rarely advisable given the generous employer contribution. If you opt out, you will lose the employer's 23.7% contribution, the death-in-service benefit and any ill-health retirement protection.

Question 7

How is my NHS pension calculated under the 2015 scheme?

Accepted Answer

The 2015 scheme builds up a pension of 1/54th of your pensionable pay each year, revalued annually by CPI plus 1.5%. Your total pension at retirement is the sum of all these yearly amounts, adjusted for inflation.

Question 8

Does the NHS pension provide inflation protection?

Accepted Answer

Yes, once in payment the NHS pension is increased each year in line with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). This means your pension broadly keeps pace with the cost of living throughout your retirement, which is a significant advantage over most private pensions.

NHS Pension Calculator 2026/27

Your Details

Your NHS Pension

How This Calculator Works

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

More NHS Calculators

NHS Redundancy Calculator

NHS Early Retirement Calculator

NHS Sick Pay Calculator

NHS Back Pay Calculator

NHS Tax Calculator

NHS Overtime Pay Calculator