Delayed Autumn Budget 26 November 2025: How Small Business Owners Can Prepare

3 Sept

The UK’s Autumn Budget, now delayed until 26 November 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched financial events in recent years. The delay gives the government time to refine its forecasts amid rising borrowing costs and a growing fiscal gap—but it also means small business owners face extra uncertainty when planning for the year ahead.

With speculation about tax rises on the horizon and potential changes to capital gains, inheritance taxes, and business incentives, proactive preparation is essential. Here’s how small business owners can get ready.

1. Keep an Eye on Tax Reform

While Chancellor Rachel Reeves has previously indicated there will be no increases in VAT, National Insurance, or Income Tax, there is a lot of speculation that tax rises could be on the horizon. Other areas could still impact small businesses:

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – Small business owners planning to sell shares, property, or parts of their companies should review the timing of disposals.
Inheritance Tax (IHT) – Delays in the Budget mean estate planning decisions may need flexibility.
Business Property Relief – Potential restructuring could affect family-owned businesses.

👉 Action: Speak with us and we can work with your financial planner now to review exit strategies, shareholder agreements, or estate planning, so you are prepared when the Budget announcements arrive.

2. Review Your Cash Flow & Borrowing

With 30-year gilt yields at their highest in decades, debt servicing costs are rising. The delayed Budget and speculation about tax rises could bring policy adjustments affecting lending conditions or incentives, so small businesses must be prepared.

👉 Action: Stress-test your cash flow against higher interest rates and explore refinancing or new credit options before the Budget introduces changes. If you have not got a cash flow forecast build one now, be prepared early.

3. Watch for Investment & Growth Incentives

Labour has signaled a focus on infrastructure, green investment, and planning reform. Small businesses in sectors like construction, renewable energy, or advanced manufacturing could benefit—but only if they are ready to act quickly once the delayed Budget is delivered.

👉 Action: Map your business plans against potential investment incentives and prepare proposals so you can capitalse on new opportunities immediately after the Chancellor’s announcements.

4. Prepare for Workforce-Related Changes

Reeves’ pro-worker agenda may introduce changes affecting small businesses, especially in a context where tax rises could offset other incentives:

Apprenticeship funding or employment law updates
Pension contributions or payroll adjustments

👉 Action: Audit your payroll systems, HR policies, and pension obligations now to avoid last-minute surprises after the delayed Budget.

5. Scenario Planning is More Important Than Ever

The Budget delay means uncertainty persists longer, and speculation about tax rises increases planning risks. Build multiple scenarios to remain agile:

Status quo: No major tax changes
Moderate impact: Adjustments to CGT/IHT, potential new small business levies
Pro-growth: New incentives but added compliance and possible tax increases

This ensures your small business can pivot quickly once the Chancellor delivers the delayed Budget.

Final Word

The delayed Autumn Budget 26 November 2025 is not just about government finances—it will directly affect small businesses’ tax planning, investment decisions, and operational strategy. By preparing early, reviewing finances, and planning for multiple outcomes—including possible tax rises—small business owners can turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Tracy Leake