The Autumn Budget 2026 introduced a range of measures affecting households, individuals and businesses across the UK. While some could benefit from lower costs, tax reliefs and new investment, others may face increased tax liabilities and operating costs.
The impact will depend on individual circumstances and, in many cases, further detail and implementation of the measures announced.
So, who could stand to gain, and who could face higher costs?
Winners
Low-and middle-income households
Many households could benefit from cost-of-living measures including a £100 Household Energy Payment for eligible households in Council Tax bands A–D in England, alongside other measures intended to reduce energy and household costs. The benefit will vary according to eligibility and individual circumstances.
Drivers and people who rely on their cars for work
Drivers could benefit from measures designed to reduce motoring costs, while EV drivers relying on lower-powered public chargers are expected to save around £150 a year on average under new support from spring 2027. Changes to approved mileage rates could also benefit some employees using their own vehicles for business journeys.
First-time buyers
First-time buyers could benefit from measures including the new First Time Buyer ISA, a reduced Lifetime ISA withdrawal charge and the Your First Home scheme in England, which is expected to open from February 2027. Housing affordability and individual eligibility will remain important considerations.
Retail, hospitality and leisure businesses
Eligible retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England could benefit from expanded business rates relief, a two-year real-terms bill freeze and an additional 20% cut for pubs and most live music venues. Business rates are devolved, so the position differs across the UK.
Entrepreneurs and growing businesses
New Founders’ Relief could provide a 10% Capital Gains Tax rate on up to £10 million of qualifying lifetime gains for eligible founders and significant early investors in the most successful businesses, while the expansion of EMI could make tax-advantaged employee share options available to more growing businesses.
Defence and infrastructure businesses
Businesses across defence, construction, energy and associated supply chains could benefit from further public investment and measures designed to support long-term growth. The opportunity for individual businesses will depend on funding translating into contracts and projects.
Losers
Landlords and people with taxable savings
From April 2027, tax rates on savings and property income are set to increase by two percentage points, as well as the two percentage points announced previously. ISA savings will retain their tax advantages, but some landlords and savers could face higher tax bills even if their income remains unchanged.
Banks
Banks face a temporary surcharge increase from 3% to 6% for 15 months, ending on 31 March 2028. Any impact on customers’ borrowing rates, savings rates or fees will depend on how individual banks respond.
Online marketplaces and non-compliant sellers
Online marketplaces will take on greater VAT responsibilities for qualifying sales by UK-established businesses. While that could increase compliance costs for platforms, the reforms are intended to tackle VAT non-compliance and create fairer competition for legitimate businesses.
Larger private-hire operators
Larger private-hire operators must account for VAT on the full passenger fare, potentially squeezing margins or increasing fares, while smaller and local firms are protected. The impact depends on operators’ business models and ability to absorb higher costs.
Businesses facing higher wage costs
Employers with significant numbers of lower-paid workers could face higher wage bills as the National Living Wage rises, with knock-on effects for employer National Insurance, pension contributions and pay differentials.
What does the Budget mean for you?
The impact of individual Budget measures will depend on your circumstances, and many changes will not take effect immediately.
Proactive planning can help you understand what is changing, identify where action may be appropriate and avoid costly surprises.
Explore our Autumn Budget 2026 hub or contacts us via the form below to speak to our specialist team.