phil C

@BellaBoo very nicely and clearly explained.

I am in a similar boat and seeking clarity which I have unfortunately yet found by calling or messaging HMRC, I do appreciate they are stretched: I haven't paid in to pension since 16-17 because (at the time when I stopped contributing) of the LTA. I'd now like to make a chunky pension contribution. The HMRC calculator says I have £200K available annual allowance and £160K unused. My questions are: (1) Does this mean that I can contribute up to £160K, although no greater than my earnings this year if that number is lower? (2) I am assuming that if I opt for £160K I'll be using up £60K for this year + £40K for 21/22 + £40K for 22/23 +£20 for 23/4? (3) do I simply pay my pension provider 80% of the above, they top up with basic relief and then I write to HMRC to claim 25% more relief on the gross amount as I have been an additional rate tax payer? (4) I think I have to write to HMRC to make the claim, with all earnings and pension contribution details, and can ask for a payment as opposed to a change in tax code next year if I believe I won't be working next year? Many thanks