By now, you’ve probably seen the headlines from the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, but knowing what’s been announced is one thing. Understanding how it could affect your business, your finances and your plans for the year ahead is another.
At Progress, we’ve been looking beyond the headlines to identify the changes that matter most to our clients, and what you can do to prepare.
Below, we’ve highlighted some key dates, with links to our fuller explanations and practical considerations.
April 2027
For landlords
Higher tax rates on rental income. From 6 April, the higher rate of Income Tax on taxable rental profits will become 44%, with basic and additional rates of 24% and 49%. We can help you review the impact on your expected tax bill and rental cash flow.
For the self-employed
The Trading Allowance increases to £3,000. From 6 April, the allowance will rise from £1,000 to £3,000. Eligible individuals can use it instead of deducting actual business expenses. We can help you compare the options to understand which is more beneficial for your circumstances.
For employers
Minimum wage rates increase. From 1 April, National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates will rise by 3.9%, taking the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over to £13.21 an hour. For employers, the additional cost goes beyond wages, with higher National Insurance and potentially pension contributions too. Businesses with larger teams could see a significant increase in their annual payroll costs, putting further pressure on profit margins.
For pension savers and pensioners
Most unused pensions come within Inheritance Tax. From 6 April, most unused pension funds and pension death benefits will count towards your estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. This could change your estate’s tax position, making it worth reviewing your existing plans.
State Pension rates increase. From 12 April, the basic State Pension and the full rate of the new State Pension will rise by 3.9%.
For business owners
Changes to tax relief when selling a business. From 6 April, the Business Asset Disposal Relief lifetime limit is due to fall from £1 million to £500,000. A separate proposed Founders’ Relief would offer a 10% Capital Gains Tax rate on up to £10 million of qualifying lifetime gains, subject to specific conditions and consultation. Speak to us before making decisions about a sale.
For savers
Higher tax rates on savings income. From 6 April, savings income tax rates will rise to 24%, 44% and 49%. The impact will depend on your income and available allowances. The annual cash ISA allowance remains £20,000, making this a useful time to review how your savings are held.
April 2028
For Individuals
Removal of the £2,500 threshold for Self Assessment, with claims instead handled through PAYE.
April 2029
For VAT-registered businesses and employers
Direct Debit arrangements for VAT and PAYE. Businesses will need a Direct Debit instruction in place, subject to exceptions. Other payment methods will still be permitted, with Direct Debit used to collect amounts remaining unpaid by a specified cut-off date.
This is worth factoring into your payment processes and cash flow planning.
Some measures remain subject to legislation or consultation. Please speak to us before taking action based on this summary.
Want the full Budget breakdown?
We’ve also prepared a detailed Autumn Budget 2026 Guide, covering the announcements and key changes in more detail.
