Dr. Arun Advani, Professor of Economics at the University of Warwick, provides expert insights on the recent budget announcement. He discusses a monumental £40 billion tax increase affecting personal finances, including significant changes to inheritance tax and national insurance. The conversation includes implications for small businesses, particularly in hospitality, and examines the surprise cuts in alcohol duty, particularly for draft beer. Advani also tackles how these financial changes intertwine with government support for low-income households amidst growing economic pressures.
The Budget announcement includes a significant tax increase that impacts employer contributions and overall personal finances for many workers.
Recent changes to inheritance tax now include pensions, prompting individuals to rethink asset gifting versus legacy planning strategies.
Deep dives
Chancellor's Budget Decisions Impact Personal Finances
The Chancellor's announcement of raising taxes by £40 billion has significant implications for personal finances, including an increase in employers' national insurance contributions. It's projected that this increase alone will raise £25 billion, affecting how businesses manage their payroll. However, the decision to end the freeze on income tax thresholds, although still delayed for a few years, is anticipated to ease fiscal drag on taxpayer earnings over time. Despite initial concerns of financial pain, experts suggest that the budget does not worsen the situation for ordinary workers and pensioners.
Inheritance Tax and Personal Pensions
Recent changes to inheritance tax have made it a more pressing concern, as the Chancellor confirmed that pensions will now be subject to this tax upon death. Previously exempt, this shift could potentially increase the number of estates falling into the tax bracket. The current threshold for inheritance tax is frozen until 2030, allowing the first £325,000 of an estate to be inherited tax-free, with specific allowances for family homes passed on. This change raises questions about individuals’ strategies regarding gifting assets during their lifetime versus relying on legacies through pension plans.
Impact of Minimum Wage Increases on Workers and Employers
The announcement of a rise in the minimum wage to £12.21 per hour significantly benefits around 1.6 million workers, representing a 6.7% increase in earnings. This adjustment comes alongside plans to establish a single minimum wage for all adults, promising even larger increases for younger workers. While many employees celebrate this news, small business owners may face challenges as they adjust to the higher labor costs. Experts acknowledge that this increased spending power could translate to higher prices for consumers, creating a balancing act between wages and costs of living.
Expanded Budget Support for Carers and Low-Income Households
Changes to the Carers Allowance and benefits are aimed at offering greater financial resilience for those providing care and those on low incomes. The government will increase the weekly earnings limit under the Carers Allowance, allowing individuals to work up to 16 hours at minimum wage without losing their benefits. Furthermore, a planned extension of the budgeting loan repayment period reflects a recognition of the struggles faced by those who receive benefits. The Chancellor's commitment to providing a £1 billion fund to support local councils underscores the ongoing challenges for people in lower income brackets.
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has announced her Budget but what does it mean for yours?
Money Box Live is breaking down what the Budget mean for your finances, from pensions and Inheritance Tax to the cost of a pint. We hear from the experts who are on hand to answer your questions and comments.
Felicity Hannah is joined by Dr Arun Advani, Professor of Economics at the University of Warwick and Kirsty Stone a partner at the independent financial advisers, The Private Office.
Presenter: Felicity Hannah
Producer: Sarah Rogers
Editor: Jess Quayle
(This episode was first broadcast at 3pm on Wednesday the 30th of October 2024)
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