How does freezing income tax thresholds affect your own tax bill?

The GuardianWednesday, November 26, 2025 at 1:29:19 PM
How does freezing income tax thresholds affect your own tax bill?
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a freeze on income tax thresholds until the 2030-31 tax year, a measure aimed at addressing the deficit in public finances. This decision is expected to lead to 'fiscal drag,' where individuals may find themselves in higher tax brackets as their incomes rise, effectively increasing their tax burden without any actual increase in real income.
  • The freezing of tax thresholds is significant as it directly impacts taxpayers, potentially leading to increased financial strain on households already facing economic challenges. This move is part of a broader strategy to stabilize public finances amid rising borrowing and economic uncertainty.
  • This development reflects ongoing debates about fiscal policy in the UK, particularly in light of the recent £26 billion tax increase announced by Reeves, which has raised concerns about the government's approach to managing the economy. The freeze on tax thresholds, alongside proposed cuts to cash ISA limits, indicates a tightening of fiscal measures that may affect consumer behavior and economic growth.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Inside Britain's new budget with more taxes and higher spending
NeutralFinancial Markets
UK Finance Minister Rachel Reeves has unveiled a new budget that raises taxes for ordinary workers while increasing government spending on social welfare programs. The plan aims to elevate the government's tax revenue to a post-war high of 38% of GDP by 2031, as reported by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). This budget is set to be a pivotal moment for the Labour government amid ongoing economic challenges.
U.K. Budget Plan Calms Markets and Labour Faithful. Will It Appeal to Voters?
PositiveFinancial Markets
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves presented a budget plan aimed at calming markets and addressing the cost of living crisis in the UK, proposing significant tax increases on the wealthy and middle class. This budget, set for November 26, is seen as crucial for the Labour government led by Keir Starmer.
Rachel Reeves targets UK’s wealthiest in £26bn tax-raising budget
NegativeFinancial Markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled a £26 billion tax-raising budget aimed at the wealthiest households in the UK, which includes the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap and cuts to energy bills funded by a mansion tax. This budget was announced amid a chaotic day marked by early leaks from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).
Rachel Reeves’ Budget raises UK tax take to all-time high
NegativeFinancial Markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a budget that raises the UK's tax take to an all-time high of 38% of GDP by the end of the parliament, reflecting a £26 billion tax increase aimed at stabilizing the economy amidst ongoing financial challenges.
Budget 2025: Key points at a glance
NeutralFinancial Markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has presented the UK Budget for 2025, which includes significant changes to tax, pensions, and welfare aimed at addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis. Key announcements include the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap and the introduction of a mansion tax, alongside a £550 increase for pensioners, reflecting the government's commitment to support vulnerable populations.
Relief for retailers as business rate changes in budget not as bad as feared
PositiveFinancial Markets
Retailers have expressed relief following the UK government's budget announcement, which revealed that changes to business rates will not be as severe as previously anticipated. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties will be permanently reduced, benefiting approximately 750,000 properties, particularly smaller operators.
Labour is still in a muddle on North Sea oil and gas | Nils Pratley
NegativeFinancial Markets
Labour's stance on North Sea oil and gas production remains unclear, as it balances a commitment to halt new drilling licenses while promising to manage existing fields throughout their operational lifespan. This contradiction raises concerns about job security in an industry already facing significant job losses, estimated at 1,000 per month according to Robert Gordon University.
Budget 2025: what it means for you
NeutralFinancial Markets
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled the Budget 2025, which includes measures affecting income tax, national insurance, and benefits for various demographics in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Notably, the national living wage will increase, impacting workers like Luke, who will see a slight rise in take-home pay despite higher tax contributions.