Tax rebate on private pension

lhogh

I invested £12,000 in a private pension in March 2008. As I am a higher rate tax payer, I was told that I could write to my tax office and claim back the 40% tax on this amount. Does anyoneknow whether this is true and if so what wording do I use in my letter to the tax office?
Many thanks

jem16

Was the £12,000 the net or gross amount you invested?

If it's the net amount your pension payment will show that you invested £15,384 gross as your pension company will have received tax relief from HMRC. You will now be able to claim the other 18% from HMRC provided you are into the higher rate tax bracket by at least £15,384. If you are only a higher rate taxpayer by £5k that's what you are entitled to claim the extra 18% on.

Simply write to HMRC and tell them you made a pension contribution and wish to claim higher rate tax relief. Give them the gross amount and date and possible details of the pension provider.