What is NHS Band 8b pay in 2026/27?

Band 8b covers Heads of service, strategic managers. Pay ranges from £66,582 to £77,368 (England) across 3 pay points. At Year 1, gross pay is £66,582. Rates are set nationally by the NHS Pay Review Body and updated each April.

How much did Band 8b pay rise in 2026/27?

Entry-point gross rose by £2,127 (3.3%) from 2025/26 to 2026/27. Use the calculator to see the net change at Year 1 after pension, tax and NI.

How much does a Band 8b Heads of service take home after tax?

In 2026/27 at Year 1, monthly take-home after pension, tax and National Insurance is around £3,742 (England). Across the band, the range is £3,742–£4,136. Use the calculator for a personalised figure with student loans or salary sacrifice.

How does the NHS pension affect Band 8b pay?

NHS Pension contributions are deducted before income tax under a NET pay arrangement, so you get full tax relief automatically. The contribution rate for Band 8b is 10.7%–12.5% of salary (10.7% at Year 1). That reduces your taxable income but not your National Insurance, which is calculated on your full gross pay.

Does Band 8b pay include London weighting?

Base pay does not include London weighting. Staff in qualifying areas receive a High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS) on top, ranging from 5% in the fringe zone to 20% in inner London. HCAS is pensionable and affects your take-home calculation.

Last updated 29 April 2026

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At a Glance
FAQ

NHS Band 8b Pay

Looking at the wrong band? Try Band 8a or Band 8c.

At a glance

Band 8b includes Heads of service, strategic managers across 3 pay points. Your pension contribution is at tier 6 (12.5%) on most of your pay. With overtime or clinical excellence awards, your total income can approach the personal allowance taper, where the effective marginal rate jumps to 60%.

NHS Agenda for Change

Heads of service, strategic managers

Full-time, standard tax code, no student loan.

MOYR

BAND

Take-home / month

£3,742

£44,901 per year · entry point

Pay progression(gross / month)

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£5,549

£5,908

£6,447

Year 1

Year 2

Year 5+

Pension rate

10.7%

£594/mo

Real hourly

£23.03

After tax & pension

2026/27England

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is NHS Band 8b pay in 2026/27?expand_circle_down

How much did Band 8b pay rise in 2026/27?expand_circle_down

How much does a Band 8b Heads of service take home after tax?expand_circle_down

How does the NHS pension affect Band 8b pay?expand_circle_down

Does Band 8b pay include London weighting?expand_circle_down