With fresh Office for National Statistics figures revealing UK public borrowing £8.1 billion higher than forecast so far this year, Chancellor John Healey faces a stark choice ahead of the Autumn Budget on 28/10/2026. Total borrowing now stands at £77.3 billion, while August’s £18.3 billion deficit came in £3.5 billion worse than expected. Economists warn that tax rises are virtually inevitable to repair fiscal headroom and fund spending pressures.
Key Risks from the Poor Fiscal Position
- Frozen income tax thresholds could drag more earners into higher bands from 2027/28.
- Possible rises to National Insurance contributions or adjustments to dividend and savings income rates.
- Staged increases to fuel duty or other personal taxes to balance the books amid inflation.
- Impacts on families with property income or higher savings levels.
Step-by-Step: Model Your Exposure with Tax Calculators
- Enter your gross income band and select your family situation (single, married, with children).
- Input current savings levels, dividend income and property ownership details.
- Run baseline scenarios using 2026/27 thresholds.
- Apply “what-if” adjustments for frozen bands or new surcharges to project 2027+ liabilities.
- Compare results across multiple calculators for accuracy before the 28/10/2026 announcement.
Current vs Possible Post-Budget Liabilities
| Income Band | Current Annual Tax | Possible Post-Budget Tax | Extra Liability |
|---|---|---|---|
| £40,000 | £5,200 | £5,800 | £600 |
| £60,000 | £12,500 | £14,200 | £1,700 |
| £80,000 | £20,800 | £23,500 | £2,700 |
Plug Your Numbers In Now
Do not wait for the OBR forecast to be published alongside the Budget. Use tax calculators today to organise your personal finances and prepare for potential changes effective 2027+.
Watch this space for our detailed post-Budget analysis on 29/10/2026.