Tax code checker
Type your tax code exactly as it appears on your payslip or P60 and we will explain what it means.
Analyse your tax code
Type your code exactly as it appears on your payslip or P60.
Think your code is wrong? Find out why your tax might be high or claim a refund.
Last updated 6 April 2026
What your tax code tells you
Your tax code tells your employer how much of your income can be earned tax-free each year — your Personal Allowance. The number in the code (for example 1257 in 1257L) is the allowance divided by ten. The letters indicate special circumstances: L for standard allowance, BR for basic rate on all income, M/N for Marriage Allowance, and W1/M1 for emergency non-cumulative coding.
A correct cumulative code spreads your allowance across the year and adjusts for what you have already earned. An emergency code treats each pay period in isolation, which often causes overpayment when you start a new job or change employer mid-year.
When to worry about your code
Check your code if you recently changed jobs, started a second job, received a large benefit in kind (company car, private medical), or your take-home pay dropped unexpectedly. Codes like BR, 0T, or anything with W1/M1 deserve immediate attention.
- 1257L — standard code for most employees with full Personal Allowance
- BR / D0 / D1 — flat-rate codes, common on second jobs
- 1257L W1 or M1 — emergency basis; often causes temporary overpayment
- K codes — negative allowance; extra income is added to your taxable pay
How to get HMRC to fix your code
Log in to your Personal Tax Account at gov.uk, give your new employer a P45, or call HMRC on 0300 200 3300 with your National Insurance number. Once HMRC issues the correct code, your employer should apply it within one or two pay runs and refund any overpaid tax through your payslip.
Frequently asked questions
What does my tax code mean?
The number shows your tax-free allowance (multiply by 10). The letters show how that allowance is applied — L is standard, BR is basic rate on all income, W1/M1 means non-cumulative emergency coding.
What is an emergency tax code?
Emergency codes such as 1257L W1/M1 or BR are used when HMRC lacks full employment information. They often cause overpayment until HMRC updates your record.
Can I have two tax codes?
Yes. Your main job usually gets your full Personal Allowance (1257L). A second job typically gets BR, D0, or D1 with no allowance against that income.
Where do I find my tax code?
It appears on your payslip, P60, P45, and in HMRC's Personal Tax Account. Enter it exactly as shown, including spaces and letters.
Related guides
TaxHelper provides general information based on published HMRC rates and guidance. It is not regulated financial or tax advice. For decisions involving significant sums, complex circumstances, or if you are unsure, speak to a qualified accountant or HMRC directly.