Tax Planning Before the Autumn Budget
13 July 2026
Tax Planning Before the Autumn Budget: What Business Owners Should Do Now
Every Autumn Budget has the potential to introduce changes that affect business owners, company directors and individuals. While it is impossible to predict exactly what the Chancellor will announce, one thing is certain: businesses that prepare early are usually in the strongest position to take advantage of the current tax rules before any changes take effect.
At Evans Entwistle, we encourage clients to review their tax position well before the Budget rather than waiting to react afterwards. A simple review now could identify opportunities to reduce tax liabilities, improve cash flow and help your business plan with greater confidence.
“Good tax planning is not about reacting to the Budget after it is announced. It is about reviewing your affairs beforehand so you can take advantage of today’s rules while they are still available.”
What should you review before the Autumn Budget?
A pre-Budget review should focus on the areas that could have the greatest financial impact:
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Director remuneration – Is the balance between salary and dividends still the most tax-efficient way to pay yourself?
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Business investments – If you are planning to purchase equipment, machinery or vehicles, would buying before the Budget maximise the available tax relief?
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Pension contributions – Employer pension contributions remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to extract profits while investing in your future.
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Corporation Tax planning – Review your projected profits and ensure you are setting aside sufficient funds for future tax liabilities.
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Capital Gains Tax – If you are thinking about selling a business or disposing of assets, timing could make a significant difference.
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Cash flow – Forecasting your Corporation Tax, VAT and Self Assessment liabilities now can help avoid unexpected financial pressure later.
Early planning gives you more options.
Reviewing your position before the Budget gives you time to make informed decisions while the current tax rules and reliefs are still available.
Why planning ahead matters
Tax legislation changes regularly. Reliefs, allowances and tax rates can all be amended from one Budget to the next. While no one knows exactly what this year’s Budget will contain, reviewing your affairs in advance gives you time to make informed decisions rather than rushing after changes have been announced.
It is also the perfect opportunity to ensure your bookkeeping is accurate and your financial records are up to date. Good management information not only supports better tax planning but also helps you make stronger business decisions throughout the year.
“Many tax-saving opportunities are only available before deadlines pass. A short planning meeting today can often save far more than trying to put things right after the Budget.”
Speak to Evans Entwistle
Whether you are a sole trader, company director or owner of a growing business, our experienced accountants can help you review your current position and identify legitimate tax planning opportunities before the Autumn Budget.
Planning ahead today could save your business thousands tomorrow. If you would like to arrange a pre-Budget tax planning review, get in touch with Evans Entwistle and speak to one of our experienced advisers.