What Does S-prefix Mean?
An S prefix (like S1257L) means you pay Scottish income tax rates instead of the rest-of-UK rates. Scotland has its own bands: starter (19%), basic (20%), intermediate (21%), higher (42%), advanced (45%), and top (48%).
Is My Tax Code Correct?
If you think your tax code is wrong, you can check it on your payslip, through your HMRC online account, or by calling HMRC on 0300 200 3300. A wrong tax code means you're paying too much or too little tax.
All Common Tax Codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1257L | £12,570 personal allowance |
| BR | All income taxed at 20% |
| D0 | All income taxed at 40% |
| D1 | All income taxed at 45% |
| NT | No tax deducted |
| 0T | No personal allowance |
| K-codes | You owe tax from elsewhere |
| W1 or M1 | Non-cumulative basis |
| S-prefix | Scottish income tax rates |
| C-prefix | Welsh income tax rates |
What S-codes Means
S-prefix codes (e.g., S1257L, SBR, SD0) indicate you are a Scottish taxpayer. Scotland has different income tax rates and bands set by the Scottish Parliament. Your employer uses the S code to apply Scottish rates instead of rest-of-UK rates.
When This Code Is Used
You are a Scottish taxpayer if your main home is in Scotland on 6 April each year. HMRC determines this automatically based on your registered address. If you have recently moved to or from Scotland, ensure HMRC has your correct address to avoid being taxed under the wrong system.
Impact on Your Pay
Scottish tax rates include a 19% starter rate (not available in rest of UK), 20% basic rate, 21% intermediate rate, 42% higher rate, 45% advanced rate, and 48% top rate. For most earners above £28,000, Scottish rates result in slightly higher tax than rest-of-UK rates. See Scottish tax calculator for exact comparisons.
Check your expected take home matches your payslip
Salary calculator →Learn more: Full guide to UK tax codes