Self employed pension and tax

[TennisTantrum]

I have recently become self employed. Currently I take home about £2500 a month/30k a year. I have no other income.

I want to put aside for a pension, probably aprx £400 a month. If I do this does this mean I will only be taxed on the £2100?

No. When you pay in to a private pension the government top it up by the equivalent in tax. Then when you do your self assessment you are taxed on it all because the extra money has already been paid in to your pension.

Ah I see. Thank you for clarifying for me!

The Sum total is the same though… if you want £400 in your pension, you only pay in £320, then the provider claims the £80 for you.