Annual Allowance Pension Deadlines 2025/26

Do you have employees who aim to keep their pension contributions close to the £60,000 annual allowance? If so, make sure the employer’s March 2026 payment for contributions reaches the pension provider by the deadline for it to count in the current tax year.

Individuals can contribute to multiple pension plans, but there is an annual limit on the amount that can be contributed tax-free.

HMRC counts all contributions made to every pension scheme the person has, including personal pension plans. This total also includes contributions made by an employer or by any third party.

The total annual allowance is currently set at £60,000 but any unused allowances from the previous three years will be automatically added to the allowance.

If you have employees this will affect, and you have a direct debit set up with your pension provider, its likely you will need to cancel the direct debit for the payment of your March 2026 contributions and make a manual payment instead.

Most providers need payments to clear their account by 5th April 2026. With bank holidays in mind, payments should clear by 2nd April 2026. Allowing around 5 days for processing, the payment must be submitted by 25th March 2026.

Check the list below to see your pension providers deadlines for payments. Any queries on these dates, or best payment method, please reach out to the pension provider directly.