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What happened in the Spring Statement 2025?  

  • 3 min read
  • Last updated 27 Mar 2025
Spring Statement 2025

The Spring Statement 2025 didn’t deliver any big plot twists, it was more of a “same script, different year” kind of moment. So if you’re feeling like you’ve seen this before, you’re not wrong. The real focus is on the tax changes coming this April, many of which were outlined in last year’s Autumn Budget. Ready to catch up on what’s coming down the tax pipeline? Let’s dive in!

What is the Spring Statement?

The Spring Statement is the UK government’s chance to update us on the state of the economy and share any key financial moves that might affect our finances. While it’s not as jam-packed as the Autumn Budget, it still offers important updates on taxes, business policies, and financial plans.

Autumn Budget 2024 recap ⏪

The Autumn Budget 2024 brought some key changes that are likely to affect your finances in the coming months. The National Living Wage got a bump, Capital Gains Tax is on the rise (hello, higher tax on investments), and employers are bracing for higher National Insurance contributions. Oh, and if you’ve been eyeing a property, that Stamp Duty Land Tax boost? It’s soon to be gone.

As the new tax year kicks off, it’s a great time to take stock and start planning ahead. If you haven’t already accounted for these changes, now’s the moment to get familiar with what’s coming up.

National Living Wage set to increase 📈

Good news for workers! Starting in April, the National Living Wage will increase from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour. If you’re aged 23 or over, this means a little more in your pocket each month, so mark your calendars and get ready for the extra cash. 

Whether you’re an employee or an employer, it’s important to stay informed about how this change could impact your income or payroll.

Capital gains in the hot seat 🔥

Heads up, investors! Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is set to rise this April. If you’re thinking of selling any assets, here’s what’s changing:

  • Lower rate: if you’re a basic rate taxpayer, CGT jumps from 10% to 18%.
  • Higher rate: if you’re a higher or additional rate taxpayer, the rate rises from 20% to 24%.
  • Residential property: no change here! CGT on property stays the same, but the higher overall rates mean your returns could take a bigger hit.

So, if you’re planning to sell anything soon, it might be worth acting before April to lock in the current, lower rates. Get ahead of it now to avoid paying more than you need to later!

Got capital gains?

We’ve got you covered. Declare your capital gains and sort your Capital Gains Tax hassle-free with your Self Assessment. Our accredited accountants will handle it all, while you sit back and relax!

The end of the SDLT boost 🏡

If you’ve been eyeing up a property, here’s a reminder: the temporary Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) boost is ending. 

Right now, properties up to £250,000 are getting a break, but come April, the threshold drops to just £125,000, meaning property purchases are about to get more expensive. 

So, if you’ve been toying with the idea of buying a home or investment property, now’s the time to act. Just something to keep in mind if you’re planning your next property step!

Employers, brace for bigger bills 💼

Alright, business owners, time to revise those budgets! Starting from April 2025, employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs) are set to rise by 1.2%, reaching 15%. But that’s not all, NICs will kick in earlier, with the threshold dropping from £9,100 to £5,000.

The silver lining? The Employment Allowance is getting a boost from £5,000 to £10,100, offering some relief for smaller businesses. 

It’s a good time to take a look at your finances, plan ahead, and make sure you’re prepared for these changes when they land.

What to watch out for in the year ahead🚨

As we step into the new tax year, there are a few key changes you’ll want to stay on top of:

  • Inheritance tax relief: if you’re a farmer or landowner, changes to relief schemes could affect your future tax planning. Best to keep an eye on this one.
  • Fiscal drag: with tax thresholds frozen, more people could find themselves creeping into higher tax brackets. It might feel like a surprise pay cut, so make sure to adjust your expectations.
  • Making Tax Digital (MTD): the MTD rollout is well underway. If you’re self-employed or a landlord, make sure you’re on top of the new digital tax reporting requirements to avoid a last-minute scramble.
  • High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC): from summer 2025, those liable for HICBC can report their family’s Child Benefit payments through a new digital service and opt to pay HICBC directly via PAYE, without needing to register for Self Assessment.

Stay ahead of these changes and make sure you’re prepared for what the year ahead brings!

Not sure where to start? 

No worries, we’ve got your back! With the new tax year bringing in fresh changes, it can be tough to keep up. Whether you’re a freelancer, investor, or business owner, we’ll help you stay on top of all the updates. Get expert advice so you can make the most of the year ahead, and focus on what truly matters.

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