If you take money from your pension pot for the first time, you may be taxed at an 'emergency rate'.

 

This rate is a default setting. It helps make sure you do not pay too little tax. The tax is taken automatically through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system. Normally, any extra tax paid will be corrected automatically in time, or you can claim back any tax you've overpaid. Further information is available on the Government's MoneyHelper website.