Free calculator · 2026/27 tax year

What's the best way to pay yourself?

Salary, dividends, or both? See which mix leaves you with the most, in about 30 seconds.

Your company's yearly profit before your salary and dividends.

£

E.g. a salary from another job or a pension. Leave at £0 if none.

£

This affects whether you can claim the Employment Allowance.

Your best mix

…

£12,570 salary + dividends
take-home a year
£5,000 salary + dividends
take-home a year
All as salary
take-home a year

Get your full breakdown

See the tax, National Insurance and corporation tax behind each option.

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Estimates only, not advice. Uses 2026/27 rates for England, Wales and Northern Ireland (Scottish income tax rates differ). Assumes one director who owns all the shares, all profit is taken out each year, and corporation tax with marginal relief. The Employment Allowance (up to £10,500 off employer National Insurance) is only available if someone other than you is on the payroll. Doesn't include pensions, student loans or other allowances, and assumes enough profit to pay dividends legally.