Personal Finance
Pay Rise Calculator
Enter your current pay and the rise percentage to see the new figure and cash increase.
What is a pay rise worth?
Percentage rises look abstract until you see the cash. Compare the annual and monthly uplift before you accept or negotiate. Inflation and tax band changes mean take-home may not rise by the same percentage as gross — treat this as a gross-pay sketch unless you model tax separately. Cash figures help budgeting; percentages help when comparing market surveys — use both in conversation. See take-home pay comparison and reverse salary when you are aiming at a net number. Pair with effective hourly wage if the rise comes with more unpaid hours. Not tax advice. Market adjustments and promotion rises should be labelled separately in your notes so you know what you are negotiating. If inflation has run ahead of your last rise, bring the cash gap to the meeting rather than only a percentage ask. Confirm whether the rise is pensionable and when it hits the first payslip.
Worked example
A 4% rise on £35,000 is £1,400 a year, about £116.67 a month before tax. After tax and NI the take-home uplift is smaller — sometimes closer to £70–£90 depending on circumstances. A rival offer at £37,000 is a larger jump than a 3% internal rise to £36,050; put both in pounds.
Limits and assumptions
Does not model tax codes, student loan or pension changes automatically. Promotions that add responsibility may change hours — cash alone is incomplete. Not negotiation coaching.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert a percentage rise to pounds?
Multiply current salary by the percentage (as a decimal). A 4% rise on £35,000 is £1,400 a year.
Should I negotiate on percentage or cash?
Cash is clearer for budgeting; percentages help when comparing market surveys. Use both in conversation.
Why might take-home rise by less?
Higher bands, student loan and pension contributions can absorb part of a gross increase.
What about backdated rises?
Multiply the monthly uplift by the backdated months for the lump sum, then confirm PAYE treatment with payroll.
How do I compare a rise with a new job?
Compare new gross and expected take-home, then subtract extra commute or childcare costs.