How much should I pay into a pension?

One of the trickiest parts of retirement planning is working out how much to pay into a pension. We explore what to consider when deciding how much to contribute

Piggy bank next to coins and sign saying Pension Plan
(Image credit: Getty Images)

One of the most common questions about retirement planning that we hear from readers is “how much should I pay into a pension?”

It can be tricky working out the optimum pension contribution that will ensure you have a comfortable retirement while also leaving you enough to enjoy your lifestyle today. Will your pension contribution enable you to meet your goals, such as retiring early, or going on exotic holidays once you finish work?

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Ruth Emery
Contributing editor

Ruth is an award-winning financial journalist with more than 15 years' experience of working on national newspapers, websites and specialist magazines.

She is passionate about helping people feel more confident about their finances. She was previously editor of Times Money Mentor, and prior to that was deputy Money editor at The Sunday Times. 

A multi-award winning journalist, Ruth started her career on a pensions magazine at the FT Group, and has also worked at Money Observer and Money Advice Service. 

Outside of work, she is a mum to two young children, while also serving as a magistrate and an NHS volunteer.

With contributions from