Autumn Budget 2026: what could it mean for your finances?

Published: August 2026

The Autumn Budget is due to take place on Wednesday 28 October 2026, when Chancellor John Healey is expected to set out the Government’s plans for tax, spending and the wider economy.

While the full detail will not be known until Budget day, number of tax and financial announcements have already been made since the new Chancellor and Prime Minister entered office.  These include the planned removal of VAT from domestic electricity bills from 1 October 2026, a measure expected to offer modest relief to households facing ongoing cost pressures.  The Government has also signalled a 20% business rates reduction for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April 2027, alongside wider reforms aimed at supporting high streets and regional growth.

For individuals and families, however, much of the attention remains on what may come next.  Areas attracting speculation include inheritance tax, pensions, property taxation, capital gains tax and social care funding.   Reports have suggested possible reform of council tax and stamp duty, while commentators have also discussed whether new approaches to care funding or wealth-related taxation could be explored.  At this stage, these remain rumours rather than confirmed policy.

There are also important changes already scheduled from previous budgets, including the inclusion of most unused pension funds within estates for inheritance tax purposes from April 2027 and planned ISA reforms affecting cash ISA limits for under-65s.  These changes make it especially important to review pension, estate and savings arrangements before making any major decisions.

The sensible message for readers is not to act on speculation alone.  Instead, the coming weeks provide a useful opportunity to review allowances, understand exposure to potential tax changes and take professional advice where appropriate.  This is something that our Financial Planning Team can help with.  Please contact one of our Chartered Financial Planners on 01223 233331 or email info@mmwealth.co.uk.

Disclaimer

Opinions constitute our judgement as of this date and are subject to change without warning.  The value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up, and you may not recover the amount of your original investment.  Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

The information in this article is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell securities or any other investment, nor does it constitute a personal recommendation.

The information contained within this blog is based on our understanding of legislation, whether proposed or in force, and market practice at the time of writing.  Levels, bases and reliefs from taxation may be subject to change.  The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning or tax advice.