The Autumn Budget 2026 is happening on 28 October, around a month earlier than last year’s Budget.
It’s the first for new Chancellor, John Healey, after his appointment from Prime Minister, Andy Burnham. The economy grew by 0.7% in the three months to August, but inflation rose to 3.1% due to fuel and energy prices. Economic growth is expected to slow in the coming months as these prices, among others, put pressure on businesses and households.
Details are a little thin at the moment as there are fewer leaks compared to previous years, but we’ll be updating this article as we find out more.
When is the Autumn Budget 2026?
This year, the Autumn Budget falls on 28 October 2026.
What time will it happen?
It’s normally on shortly after 12:30pm, when Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) is over, and it will last around an hour.
How can I watch the Autumn Budget 2026?
The Budget will be broadcast live on the BBC and streamed on ParliamentTV.
What could happen in the Autumn Budget 2026?
Business rates cut
Well, the only measure confirmed for small businesses so far is 20% knocked off business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April 2027. More details will be revealed at the end of October.
Wider reforms to business rates may also be on the cards, including a larger business rates bill for warehouses.
HM Treasury has launched a Budget Representation Portal survey where you can send comments on existing policy for consideration in the Budget. It closes at 23:59 on 9 September.
Pubs, clubs and live music venues to get 20% business rates cut
Rise in capital gains tax rate
There has been some speculation around aligning capital gains tax rates with income tax rates, but this has not been confirmed.
Other taxes
Labour’s 2024 manifesto promised that corporation tax would stay at 25%. Full expensing and the annual investment allowance would also be retained as in line with Labour’s pledges. However, with such an uncertain economic backdrop, tax could come up in the Budget.
There’s been speculation that holiday lets will be taxed as second homes rather than as businesses. A move like this could cost owners between £1,000-£3,000, the chairman of the Professional Association of Self-Caterers told The Telegraph.
See also: Is it worth opening a holiday let?
Remember that if you’re earning over £30,000, you’ll have to do Making Tax Digital from April 2027. Those earning over £20,000 have until April 2028 to comply.
See also: Making Tax Digital – what actions small firms need to take now