The Autumn Budget brought a range of changes that will affect private clients across tax, savings and property. We set out the key measures and what they mean in practice.

Council Tax

From April 2028, owners of residential properties in England valued above £2 million will face an additional annual charge of £2,500, rising to £7,500 for properties above £5 million. Assessments will be conducted by the Valuation Office, with revaluations every five years.

Income Tax

The freeze on personal tax rates and allowances has been extended through April 2031. National Insurance thresholds are similarly frozen. Dividend, savings and rental income tax rates will each increase by 2%, with staggered implementation beginning in April 2026.

Savings and Investment

From April 2027, individuals under 65 will be required to invest £8,000 of their £20,000 annual ISA allowance in investment assets rather than cash. Venture Capital Trust relief will decrease from 30% to 20% from April 2026, though lifetime investment limits for qualifying schemes are being doubled to support investment in early-stage companies.

Capital Gains Tax

The annual CGT exemption remains frozen at £3,000 for individuals and £1,500 for trusts. This continuing freeze means that more gains will fall within the charge to tax each year as asset values rise.

Inheritance Tax

Agricultural and business relief restrictions take effect from April 2026, subject to a £1 million 100% allowance that will be transferable between spouses. The nil rate band remains frozen at £325,000 and the residential nil rate band at £175,000, both through April 2031 — meaning a growing number of estates will become liable to IHT as property and asset values increase.

If you would like to discuss how any of these changes affect your personal position, please do not hesitate to contact us.