As we look ahead to the Autumn Budget 2025, it is clear that the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will be under pressure to balance public expectations with fiscal reality. A combination of reduced growth forecasts, increased borrowing costs, and the reversal of planned welfare savings has narrowed the government’s room for manoeuvre.

Early signals suggest that the upcoming Budget, expected in late October or early November, will avoid headline-grabbing tax rate increases but may rely instead on less visible means of raising revenue.

One of the most likely measures is a further extension of the freeze on Income Tax thresholds. This approach, known as ‘fiscal drag’, increases the tax take without altering rates by pulling more taxpayers into higher bands as earnings rise. For many clients, this could mean a higher overall tax burden despite unchanged tax rates.

We also expect a closer look at Capital Gains Tax (CGT). Recent years have seen CGT receipts fall short of Treasury forecasts. This may prompt a review of CGT rates and allowances, especially for higher earners. Clients who are considering asset disposals may benefit from planning ahead of any potential changes.

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is also under the spotlight, especially following protests in the agricultural sector. Proposals such as tightening asset reliefs or reforming lifetime gifting rules could impact clients with family businesses or larger estates. It may be timely for those affected to review succession plans.

There is also speculation that the Chancellor will examine tax reliefs linked to ISAs and pensions. Any restriction here could affect retirement planning strategies, particularly for those making full use of current allowances.

While a rise in corporation tax has been played down, the Chancellor may still consider smaller adjustments to employer National Insurance or sector-specific tax reliefs. Departmental spending cuts and changes to benefit entitlements may also be used to help bridge the fiscal gap.

In summary, the Autumn Budget 2025 is expected to raise between £10 and £15 billion through a range of threshold freezes and targeted tax relief reforms. Now is a good time for clients to review their tax and financial plans. We are here to support you in preparing for the changes ahead.

Please contact us if you would like to arrange a review of your personal or business tax position in advance of the Budget.