Budget 2026

29 September 2026

Speculation that capital gains tax (CGT) rates could rise at the Budget may encourage some investors to bring forward plans to sell investments held outside ISAs and pensions. While no changes have been announced, the prospect of higher future tax rates could lead some investors to realise gains sooner rather than later.

CGT rate increases, if...

28 September 2026

The past couple of Budgets have marched noisily towards us for months, accompanied by a cacophony of leaks, rumours and alarm bells. This one is sneaking up on us more stealthily. It’s one reason why the level of anxiety is slightly lower – with 63% of people concerned that possible tax rises in the Budget could affect them, down from 67% ahead of...

11 September 2026

With the Budget fast approaching, the rumour mill is, as usual, going into overdrive over whether there will be changes to pensions tax incentives from October.

Those who have built up larger pension pots must feel somewhat caught in the headlights. But trying to make decisions based on policy rumours becomes a guessing game.

Whether and when to...

4 September 2026

Budget speculation season is easing into its stride, with Andy Burnham coming under increasing pressure to discuss possible tax hikes. Anything other than flat-out denial is being seen as a potential sign of higher taxes.

As the weeks wear on, we can expect more of this, and there’s an increasing danger that people feel they need to take steps...

21 August 2026

In the lead up to recent Budgets, many retirees opted to take tax-free lump sums from their pension after rumours that there would be cuts to the allowance.

But tax-free lump sums have not been changed yet, leaving some in an awkward position of now having a chunk of cash sitting in their accounts, with no need to spend it right away. Even for...

14 August 2026

Higher earners already pay a massive chunk of tax here in the UK as the top 50% of earners pay 90% of all income tax, and the top 1% pay 27%. If they make over £100,000, they also fall off the cliff edge and lose incredibly valuable government support.

If you have a significant portfolio outside ISAs and pensions, you’re also highly likely to be...

6 August 2026

Like Christmas, Budget speculation season has kicked off even earlier this year, with everything from wealth taxes to frozen tax thresholds being thrown into the mix.

When faced with the threat of higher taxes, people will always want to take steps to protect themselves. But if you do, it’s essential to focus on those you’ll be grateful for...

28 July 2026

AJ Bell has written to new Chancellor John Healey calling for a public commitment to a long-overdue Pension Tax Lock to avoid a repeat of the 2024 and 2025 Budgets and give stability to Brits saving for retirement.

Pension providers raised alarm bells at both the 2024 and 2025 Budgets, warning that cash was being withdrawn from long-term pension...