The contribution rate you pay in the LGPS is based on how much you are paid. The rate you pay depends on which pay band you fall into. There are nine different pay bands with contribution rates ranging from 5.5% to 12.5% of your pensionable pay. The following pay bands and contribution rates will apply in the main and 50/50 sections of the LGPS respectively from 1 April 2026 until 31 March 2027 (both dates inclusive):
The table below shows the pay bands and contribution rates that apply from 1 April 2026 until 31 March 2027.
Member contribution rates from April 2026
| Pensionable pay for this employment | Main section Gross Contribution | 50/50 section Gross Contribution |
| £0 - £18,400 | 5.5% | 2.75% |
| £18,401 - £29,000 | 5.8% | 2.90% |
| £29,001 - £47,300 | 6.5% | 3.25% |
| £47,301 - £59,800 | 6.8% | 3.40% |
| £59,801 - £84,000 | 8.5% | 4.25% |
| £84,001 - £119,100 | 9.9% | 4.95% |
| £119,101 - £140,400 | 10.5% | 5.25% |
| £140,401 - £210,700 | 11.4% | 5.70% |
| £210,701 or more | 12.5% | 6.25% |
The Contributions calculator
You can also use an interactive 'Contributions calculator' on the LGPS members website to find out how much you will pay in contributions.
You will need to input:
- your pay for the next scheme year (1 April to 31 March)
- how often you are paid (either weekly or monthly), and
- the section of the scheme you are in (you'll be in the main section unless you choose to pay less in the 50/50 section).
Tax relief
If you earn enough to pay tax, your LGPS contributions will attract tax relief when they are deducted from your pay.
There are restrictions on the amount of tax relief available on pension contributions. If the value of your pension savings increases in a year by more than the standard annual allowance, you may have to pay a tax charge. Most people will not be affected by the annual allowance.
