Insights for Savers

The Autumn Budget 2025 delivered this week by Chancellor Rachel Reeves has brought a mix of changes that could affect your savings, income, and long-term plans. From potential Cash ISA allowance cuts and pension salary sacrifice updates to higher wages and frozen rail fares, there’s a lot to think about.

Here’s a clear, practical look at the main points from the UK Autumn Budget, what they could mean for your money, and tips to stay ahead.

Key points at a glance

  • Cash ISA allowance to be cut from £20,000 to £12,000 for under-65s.
  • Pension salary-sacrifice contributions capped at £2,000 a year from April 2029; contributions above this lose the National Insurance (NI) benefit.
  • National Minimum Wage rises from April 2026, giving more take-home pay.
  • Regulated rail fares frozen in England for 2026, keeping travel costs steady.

 

Cash ISA allowance: Make the most while you can

The government plans to cut the annual Cash ISA allowance from £20,000 to £12,000 for under-65s from April 2027.

What this means for savers:

  • If you usually put big sums into a Cash ISA, now’s the time to use as much of the current allowance as you comfortably can.
  • After 2027, you may need to spread savings across other accounts, like fixed-term savings, to stay flexible.
  • Planning ahead now can help you make the most of tax-free savings before the ISA allowance 2025/26 changes.
Couple of sofa looking at a phone

Pension salary-sacrifice cap: plan your contributions

From April 2029, only the first £2,000 a year of pension contributions via salary sacrifice will retain the NI advantage. Contributions above this lose the benefit.

Why it matters:

  • If you’re a regular contributor, the benefit for larger contributions will be reduced, so check your salary sacrifice pension scheme.
  • Consider spreading contributions or exploring other ways to save for retirement, including pension salary sacrifice reforms suggested in the Labour Budget.
  • Planning ahead ensures you stay on track toward your state pension and long-term goals.

 

National Minimum Wage: a boost to your take-home pay

The Autumn Budget 2025 confirmed a rise in the National Minimum Wage from April 2026. For workers aged 21 and over it will increase to £12.71 per hour.

How this helps savers:

  • Extra pay can go straight into savings or help pay off debt.
  • Young workers and those on lower incomes can start building financial cushions.
  • Even small increases make a difference over time if used wisely. Wage increases 2025 could particularly benefit those relying on minimum wage 2025.

 

What this all means for UK savers

The Autumn Budget brings a mix of tightening and relief. While ISA allowances and pension benefits may change, wage rises and stable travel costs give savers a chance to plan ahead and build resilience.

  • Act while current benefits last and take advantage of the current Cash ISA allowance.
  • Stay flexible: spread savings across different accounts and don’t rely on a single option.
  • Review long-term plans and check that pension and savings strategies still make sense.
  • Take positive steps now, small adjustments today can make a big difference over time.

 

Aldermore: Helping you make the most of your savings

Even with proposed changes, there’s plenty UK savers can do. Rising wages, state pension security, and steady costs give households a better chance to build financial resilience.

Take a look now at our range of savings solutions, including Cash ISAs, Easy Access Savings, and Fixed Savings Accounts designed to help you make the most of your money today and plan for the future.

View our savings accounts