In the latest Budget announcement, significant changes were revealed with specific dates for implementation. Here is a breakdown of key updates set to take effect:

– Alcohol prices will see an increase as alcohol duty is set to rise by 3.66% starting February 2026, following the Retail Price Index (RPI) inflation.
– Rail fares in England will remain frozen until 2027, with regulated ticket prices staying flat after a 4.6% increase earlier this year.
– The two-child benefit cap will be removed from April 2026, allowing families to claim Universal Credit or Tax Credits for their third or subsequent child.
– From April 2026, the state pension will rise by 4.8%, increasing the weekly amount from £230.25 to £241.30.
– DWP benefits are set to increase in April 2026, aligning with the previous September inflation rate.
– Car tax will also rise in line with RPI inflation from April 2026, affecting most cars registered after April 1, 2017, with a standard annual rate of £195.
– Energy bills are expected to decrease by £150 from April 2026 following the removal of the Energy Company Obligation scheme.
– The minimum wage will rise by 4.1% to £12.71 per hour for workers aged 21 and over starting April 2026.
– NHS prescription costs will remain at £9.90 per item, frozen by the Chancellor for the upcoming year.