This series is aimed at owner-managers and busy finance leads who want plain-English, actionable ways to keep more of what they earn.
We’ll cover practical, HMRC-aware tactics—from solvent company exits (MVL) and salary sacrifice (including EVs) to smart share schemes (Growth/EMI) and overlooked wins like professional subscriptions with simple examples and back-of-the-envelope maths.
Each edition is a quick read with a clear next step; no jargon, just what works right now.
The Autumn Budget is just around the corner, and this year could bring some of the biggest shifts in tax policy we’ve seen in a while. While not everything is set in stone, there are already confirmed changes on the way — and some very strong predictions that businesses and individuals should prepare for now.
1. The Income Tax Freeze – the “Stealth Tax” ✅ Confirmed
The freeze on income tax thresholds is already in place and set to continue. That means as wages rise, more people will be pushed into higher tax brackets — even if their spending power hasn’t really grown.
What you can do now:
- Review your salary/dividend/pension mix.
- Make the most of personal allowances and reliefs.
- Consider shifting some income into tax-free vehicles.
2. Pensions Under Pressure ⚠️ Speculated
There’s strong talk of restrictions to pensions — whether through reducing annual allowances or changing how tax relief is applied. On top of that, from April 2027, unused pensions will be included in Inheritance Tax, meaning families could face larger IHT bills.
What you can do now:
- Maximise contributions while the current rules apply.
- Check your annual and lifetime allowances.
- Review estate planning if pensions are part of your legacy.
3. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) ⚠️ Speculated
Capital Gains Tax is a likely target. While nothing is confirmed, there’s growing expectation of either rate increases or reduced allowances. This would hit property sales, share disposals, and business exits hard.
What you can do now:
- If you’re planning a sale, consider bringing it forward.
- Use available allowances before they’re cut.
- Explore more tax-efficient investment structures.
4. Stamp Duty and Property Taxes ⚠️ Speculated
Stamp Duty Land Tax could see changes. Some reports suggest tweaks to higher-value properties; others hint at more radical reform, such as moving towards a property-based levy. Nothing’s final yet — but even a small adjustment could cost buyers thousands.
What you can do now:
- If you’re already in a purchase or sale, aim to complete before April.
- Factor potential rises into your property plans.
5. Other Confirmed Changes Already on the Horizon ✅
Beyond speculation, there are reforms already scheduled:
- Inheritance Tax reliefs (APR/BPR): From April 2026, 100% relief will only apply to the first £1m of qualifying property, with 50% relief above that.
- Inheritance Tax on pensions: From April 2027, unused pension pots will be included in IHT.
- Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD ITSA): Due to begin April 2026.
- Mandatory payrolling: Set to come in from April 2027.
Why Acting Now Matters
The Autumn Budget often drops changes with little notice, leaving taxpayers scrambling. By reviewing pensions, ISAs, investment plans, and business structures early, you’re putting yourself in the strongest possible position.
It’s far better to be prepared and not need to act than to be caught off-guard when the Chancellor speaks.
Final Thoughts
We can’t know every detail until Budget Day – but the direction of travel is clear: more stealth taxes, tighter reliefs, and bigger bills for higher earners and property owners.
If you want help understanding how this might affect you or your business? Let’s chat. I’ll also be breaking down the Budget in plain English as soon as it’s announced.