Disclaimer
Clearer Money helps you understand how tax, pensions and childcare can affect your numbers. Its calculations are estimates and its guides provide general information.
Information, not personal advice
Clearer Money does not assess your full financial circumstances or recommend a particular pension, investment or financial product. Using the site does not create an adviser–client relationship.
A comparison showing a tax saving is not a recommendation to make that contribution. Consider your need for accessible money, employer arrangements and personal circumstances before making a decision.
What the estimates cover
The current calculators use 2026-27 income tax rules for England, Wales and Northern Ireland and model one employed earner. Working-parent funded childcare assumptions relate to England. Scottish income tax and other nations’ funded childcare schemes are not modelled.
Results depend on the inputs and assumptions. Annual National Insurance estimates can differ from payroll calculations. Tax codes, student loans, a partner’s income and some other income or deductions are outside the model. Read how we calculate for the detail.
Pension and childcare decisions
Pension comparisons do not establish whether a contribution is permitted or eligible for relief. Contribution allowances, earnings limits, minimum wage rules, scheme terms and deadlines may affect what you can do. Pension money is not available to spend in the same way as take-home pay.
Childcare figures estimate the value of support; they are not an eligibility decision or a promise of payment. Age, working patterns, household circumstances, reconfirmation dates and provider charges may affect entitlement and the amount you save.
Check before acting
Tax rules and official guidance can change, and errors or omissions are possible. Check the relevant GOV.UK guidance, your pension provider or employer before making a contribution, filing a return or declaring childcare eligibility.
For decisions that depend on your individual circumstances, seek advice from an appropriately qualified tax or financial adviser. Links to external sources are provided for context; Clearer Money does not control their content.
Your rights
This page explains the intended use and limitations of the service. It does not exclude or restrict any rights or liability that cannot lawfully be excluded or restricted.