Band 8d represents senior leadership roles with higher salary exposure. At this level, marginal tax rates and a 12.5% NHS pension contribution significantly shape your net pay.
This page explains Band 8d take-home pay mechanics and the updated 2026/27 salary points. For the wider pay award announcement, see: NHS pay update 2026/27.
- Take-home pay (England/Wales/NI): Band 8d Take-Home Calculator
- Resident in Scotland? Band 8d Scotland Calculator
- Hourly rate from annual salary: Convert NHS Salary to Hourly
1. Band 8d salary and hourly rate (2026/27)
| Band 8d position | Gross annual salary (2026/27) | Hourly rate (gross) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry level | £94,356 | *£48.26 |
| Intermediate | £100,140 | *£51.21 |
| Top of band | £108,814 | *£55.65 |
*Gross hourly rate orientation. For personalised calculations use the hourly converter above.
2. 2026/27 vs 2025/26 (Band 8d comparison)
| Band 8d position | Gross 2025/26 | Gross 2026/27 | Annual increase | Hourly 2025/26 | Hourly 2026/27 | Hourly increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry level | £91,342 | £94,356 | +£3,014 | £46.71 | £48.26 | +£1.55 |
| Intermediate | £96,941 | £100,140 | +£3,199 | £49.58 | £51.21 | +£1.63 |
| Top of band | £105,337 | £108,814 | +£3,477 | £53.87 | £55.65 | +£1.78 |
3. Pension and higher-rate tax impact
12.5% NHS pension contribution
At Band 8d, pension contributions are commonly around 12.5%. Combined with higher marginal tax exposure, this can significantly reduce the visible increase in take-home pay compared to the headline gross uplift.
4. Estimated Band 8d take-home pay (monthly)
- Entry level: ~£4,900 – £5,200 per month
- Intermediate: ~£5,200 – £5,600 per month
- Top of band: ~£5,600 – £6,000 per month
These are broad illustrations only. For an exact estimate including pension, tax code and student loans, use: the Band 8d take-home calculator.