Band 8b sits in a higher earnings range where both pension contributions and marginal tax rates can have a noticeable impact on take-home pay. Even when gross pay rises in line with the pay award, the net increase can look smaller once deductions are applied.
This page explains Band 8b take-home mechanics and shows the 2026/27 salary points. For the broader pay award context, see: NHS pay update 2026/27.
- Take-home pay (England/Wales/NI): Band 8b Take-Home Calculator
- Resident in Scotland? Band 8b Scotland Calculator
- Hourly rate from annual salary: Convert NHS Salary to Hourly
- Annual salary from hourly rate: Convert NHS Hourly to Salary
Prefer the all-band calculator? Use: NHS Take-Home Pay Calculator
1. Band 8b salary and hourly rate (2026/27)
| Band 8b position | Gross annual salary (2026/27) | Hourly rate (gross) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry level | £66,582 | *£34.05 |
| Intermediate | £70,896 | *£36.26 |
| Top of band | £77,368 | *£39.57 |
*Gross hourly rate orientation. For a precise calculation based on your contract, use NHS Salary to Hourly.
2. 2026/27 vs 2025/26 (Band 8b pay comparison)
| Band 8b position | Gross annual salary 2025/26 | Gross annual salary 2026/27 | Annual increase | Hourly 2025/26 | Hourly 2026/27 | Hourly increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | £64,455 | £66,582 | +£2,127 | £28.48 | £34.05 | +£5.57 |
| Intermediate | £68,631 | £70,896 | +£2,265 | £29.91 | £36.26 | +£6.35 |
| Top of band | £74,896 | £77,368 | +£2,472 | £32.06 | £39.57 | +£7.51 |
3. NHS pension and Band 8b: 12.5% bracket
Based on the pension brackets you provided, many Band 8b salaries fall into a contribution rate of 12.5% for whole-time equivalent pensionable pay of £65,191 and above.
Why this matters
A 12.5% pension contribution significantly affects take-home pay. When gross salary rises, the additional earnings are also subject to pension deductions at this rate, reducing the visible net increase.
4. Estimated Band 8b take-home pay (monthly)
Typical monthly take-home range
- Entry level: ~£3,700 – £4,000 per month
- Intermediate: ~£3,900 – £4,300 per month
- Top of band: ~£4,200 – £4,500 per month
These are broad estimates. For a personalised calculation including pension, tax code and student loans, use: the Band 8b take-home calculator.