The Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey, yesterday announced his first Budget with the new PM, Andy Burnham looking on.
The Chancellor’s stated aim with this Budget was “to provide breathing space for today and hope for the future.”
Click here to download our Autumn Budget (PDF)
Our view
Budgets inevitably produce a lot of headlines, but for businesses the more important question is usually much simpler: what actually changes for me, and when?
Not every announcement takes effect immediately. Some measures apply straight away, others from the next tax year or later, and some still require legislation before they become law.
For SMEs, we believe the most useful approach is to consider the Budget alongside the wider financial position of the business. Tax is important, but so are payroll costs, cash flow, investment decisions, pricing and the amount owners ultimately need to take from the business.
There may also be occasions where an announcement sounds particularly positive or negative in the headlines but has relatively little impact on an individual business once its circumstances are considered.
Our view is therefore that businesses should avoid making decisions based on a Budget headline alone.
Instead, the important questions are:
- Which changes actually affect you?
- When do they take effect?
- What is the likely financial impact?
- Is there anything that should sensibly be planned for in advance?
As the detailed legislation and HMRC guidance develop, those questions become much more useful than the headline reaction to Budget day.
About this publication
Published by: We Are Pi Chartered Certified Accountants
Professional commentary reviewed by: Angelique Wright FCCA
Last reviewed: 29 October 2026
This Budget summary has been produced using white-labelled technical content supplied by ProActiv Tax, with additional commentary from We Are Pi Chartered Certified Accountants.
Sources and further guidance: The underlying Budget information is based on official HM Treasury, HMRC and Office for Budget Responsibility publications relating to Budget 2026. Individual measures may be subject to legislation, further HMRC guidance and different commencement dates.
About We Are Pi
We Are Pi is a Buckinghamshire-based firm of Chartered Certified Accountants supporting owner-managed businesses, company directors and individuals with accounting, tax, compliance and business advisory services.
We believe good tax planning is not about looking at one tax in isolation. It is about understanding the wider position of the business and its owners and planning ahead wherever possible.
Important information: This publication is intended for general information only and should not be treated as tax, accounting, legal or financial advice specific to your circumstances. Budget announcements, legislation and HMRC guidance can change, and the effect of individual measures will depend upon your circumstances.
Would you like to understand what Budget 2026 means for you or your business?
We Are Pi can review the changes relevant to your circumstances and help you consider their impact on your business, remuneration, tax position and future planning.
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