In the Budget, key dates for significant changes have been outlined. Alcohol prices will increase by 3.66% starting February 2026, impacting various beverages. Rail fares in England will remain unchanged until 2027. The two-child benefit cap under Universal Credit or Tax Credits will be removed from April 2026.
State pensions will rise by 4.8% in April 2026, while most DWP benefit payments will increase in line with inflation. Car tax rates will also rise from April 2026. Energy bills are set to decrease by £150 from April 2026, and the minimum wage will go up by 4.1% to £12.71 per hour in the same period.
NHS prescription costs will be frozen at £9.90 per item. The temporary 5p per litre fuel duty cut will end in September 2026. The cash ISA annual limit will be reduced to £12,000 for under-65s from April 2027. Tax rates on savings interest and property interest will increase from April 2027 as well.
Student loan repayment thresholds will be frozen from April 2027. Pensions will be subject to Inheritance Tax starting April 2027. Expensive homes valued over £2 million will face a new surcharge in April 2028. Electric vehicle drivers will be taxed per mile from April 2028.
The Help to Save scheme for Universal Credit recipients, offering a 50% bonus on savings, will become permanent in 2028. The freeze on tax thresholds has been extended until April 2031, potentially affecting more workers.