🧾 Autumn Budget Alert: What Rachel Reeves Might Do—and How You Can Stay Ahead

swan river
Sep 10
2 min read

Brace yourselves: Chancellor Rachel Reeves is gearing up for a high-stakes Autumn Budget on 26 November 2025, and the pressure is mounting. With a projected £40–£50 billion shortfall in public finances, tax changes are almost inevitable. While headline rates like Income Tax and VAT may stay put (for now), stealth taxes are likely to creep in through the back door.

🔍 What’s on the chopping block?

Here’s what’s rumoured to be in the firing line:

Income Tax Threshold FreezeFiscal drag continues—more earners pushed into higher tax brackets.
Inheritance Tax TighteningA lifetime cap on gifts and reduced taper relief could be introduced.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)Reliefs may be slashed, and rates could inch closer to income tax levels.
Pension Tax ReliefSalary sacrifice schemes and high-earner benefits are under scrutiny.
Council Tax & Property LeviesExpect hikes—especially for high-value homes. A new property tax based on current home values is being considered.

💡 What can you do about it?

Don’t wait for the Budget bombshell—take action now:

✅ Review your estate planConsider gifting strategies or trusts before new IHT rules kick in.
✅ Maximise pension contributionsLock in current reliefs while they’re still available.
✅ Use tax-efficient wrappersThink ISAs, offshore bonds, or Spanish-compliant investments if you’re abroad.
✅ Speak to a cross-border tax adviserEspecially if you’re an expat—rules vary widely by country.
✅ Plan asset sales strategicallyIf CGT rises, timing could be everything.