SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension)
A personal pension that gives you full control over how your pot is invested — including individual shares, funds, ETFs, and investment trusts.
A SIPP offers the widest investment choice of any UK pension type. Unlike workplace pensions with limited fund menus, a SIPP lets you choose from thousands of funds, individual company shares, ETFs, investment trusts, and sometimes commercial property.
SIPPs are popular with self-employed workers (who have no workplace pension), people consolidating old pots, and investors who want more control. Fees vary widely: Vanguard charges 0.15% (capped at £375/year), Interactive Investor charges a flat £5.99/month, and Hargreaves Lansdown uses a tiered percentage. For pots above ~£100,000, flat-fee SIPPs are usually significantly cheaper than percentage-fee ones.
SIPPs use relief at source — your provider adds 20% basic rate, and you claim higher rate via self-assessment.
This calculator provides estimates based on 2025/26 tax rates and is not financial advice. Scottish taxpayers are subject to different income tax rates and bands. The calculations assume your salary is your only source of income and do not account for benefits in kind or other taxable income.
For personalised guidance on your pension contributions, speak to an FCA-regulated financial adviser. You can find one via Unbiased or VouchedFor.