Answers · UK 2025/26
How do I check my UK tax code?
Find your tax code on your payslip, P60 or P45 — usually 1257L for standard Personal Allowance. Check via HMRC online (gov.uk/check-income-tax-current-year), HMRC app, or call 0300 200 3300. Wrong tax codes cause over/under-payment — flag any discrepancy promptly.
Full answer
Your UK tax code tells your employer how much tax-free income (Personal Allowance) you get each year. 2025/26 standard: 1257L = £12,570 PA. Found on: most recent payslip, P60 (end of year), P45 (when leaving job), HMRC personal tax account at gov.uk/personal-tax-account, HMRC app, or by calling HMRC 0300 200 3300. Common variations: 1257L (standard), S1257L (Scottish), C1257L (Welsh), BR (basic rate on all — second job), 0T (no PA), K-codes (negative allowance for BIK), W1/M1 (emergency, non-cumulative). Wrong tax code = over- or under-payment. Update HMRC via online account when: starting/leaving job, getting BIK (company car), Marriage Allowance change, retiring, going self-employed. HMRC issues new tax codes via P9D/P9T notice each March.
Try the calculator
Related guides
More answers
This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.