Understanding the Autumn Budget

The Autumn Budget has been announced, bringing a number of changes that could affect members of the RAF Family. 

With household budgets still under pressure, much of the focus was on everyday costs. Households in Council Tax Bands A-D will receive a £100 energy payment from January 2027, while the VAT-free electricity scheme has been extended until Spring 2027. Fuel duty will remain frozen, and gas standing charges are due to be scrapped by the end of 2027.

There was good news for pensioners: the Government has committed to keeping the State Pension Triple Lock in place until 2030 and has announced a new pension tax allowance intended to ensure that increases in the State Pension do not automatically result in pensioners paying income tax.

For some families, the measures that may matter most are still a few years away. Plans for a new Carer's Allowance earnings taper from 2030 should allow some carers to earn more before their benefit is affected, while self-employed fathers and partners are expected to gain access to paid parental leave support from 2029.

Elsewhere, the National Living Wage will rise by 3.9%, tax-free mileage rates are set to increase from April 2027 for people using their own vehicles for work, and import tariffs on a range of food products are being removed in the hope of easing pressure at the supermarket checkout.

If you have any questions or concerns about the Budget announcement, our Benefits Advice team is here to help. Call 0300 102 1919 to speak to our Welfare Navigators, who can help you access the right support.