In the Budget announcement, key dates for major changes were outlined by The Mirror. Alcohol prices are set to increase by 3.66% starting February 2026, translating to additional costs for popular drinks. Meanwhile, rail fares in England will remain stable until 2027, following a recent hike earlier this year.
The two-child benefit cap under Universal Credit or Tax Credits will be removed from April 2026. State pension will see a 4.8% rise from the same month, benefit payments will increase, and car tax will be adjusted in line with inflation.
Energy bills are expected to decrease by £150 in April 2026, and the minimum wage will rise to £12.71 per hour for workers aged 21 and over. NHS prescription costs will remain constant, but the 5p fuel duty cut will be reversed by September 2026.
Changes in financial regulations will also impact savings and property taxes from April 2027 onwards. Student loan repayment thresholds will be frozen, pensions will be subject to Inheritance Tax, and a new surcharge will apply to properties valued over £2 million.
Additional taxes on electric vehicle usage will be implemented, and the Help to Save scheme for Universal Credit recipients will become permanent from 2028. Tax thresholds will be unfrozen by April 2031, potentially affecting more workers with higher tax rates.