Understanding Your Pay and Tax Code When You Start a New Job in Surrey
Answers to the common questions you may have regarding payroll.
Starting a new job can come with questions about pay, tax codes, and your first payslip. This Payroll FAQs page explains how payroll works in the UK and what to expect when you start a health or social care role in Surrey, including NHS jobs in Surrey.
- What is payroll and how does it work in the UK?
- What tax code will I get when I start a new job?
- Why is my first payslip taxed more than expected?
- What does tax code 1257L mean?
- What are BR and 0T tax codes?
- Do I need a P45 to start a new job?
- Who can help if my pay or tax code is wrong?
Table of Contents
What is payroll and how does it work in the UK?
Payroll is the process your employer uses to calculate your pay, tax, and National Insurance before you are paid. When you start a new job in Surrey, your employer uses the information you provide to ensure the correct deductions are made from your salary.
What tax code will I get when I start a new job?
Your tax code depends on your circumstances, including whether this is your only job or if you have other income. If you do not have a P45, your employer will use the details you provide on a Starter Checklist to apply the correct tax code.
If you are starting an NHS or care role in Surrey, this is a normal part of the onboarding process.
Why is my first payslip taxed more than expected?
It is common for your first payslip to show higher tax deductions. This can happen if your employer does not yet have your full tax information or if a temporary tax code is applied.
Any overpaid tax is usually corrected automatically in future pay periods.
What does tax code 1257L mean?
1257L is the most common UK tax code. It means you are entitled to the standard tax-free Personal Allowance and that this is your main source of income.
Many people starting health and social care jobs in Surrey will be placed on this code.
What are BR and 0T tax codes?
A BR (Basic Rate) tax code means all your earnings are taxed at the basic rate. This is often used if you have more than one job or another source of income.
A 0T tax code means no tax-free allowance is applied. This can be used when there is not enough information available at the start of your employment.
Do I need a P45 to start a new job?
No. If you do not have a P45 from a previous employer, you can still start work. Your employer will ask you to complete a Starter Checklist so they can calculate your tax correctly.
Who can help if my pay or tax code is wrong?
If you have concerns about your pay or tax code, speak to your employer’s payroll team first. If you are unsure who to contact or need general guidance, the Surrey Talent Hub team can help.
Email us at: syheartlandsicb.nwstalenthub@nhs.net
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