Financial forecasters have pinpointed several key dates in 2026 that could significantly impact households' finances.
In January, mortgage customers on variable-rate deals will start to benefit from December's Bank of England rate cut, but one major change will be an increase in energy prices. The price cap for direct debit customers will rise by 0.2%, effectively costing the average household £3 more per year.
January also marks a new requirement for investors buying or selling cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. HM Revenue & Customs wants to ensure all relevant taxes are paid, so you'll need to provide additional details, including your national insurance number.
The start of February sees the UK's alcohol duty increase by 3.66%, which will add costs to drinkers. The Bank of England also holds its first interest rate decision of the year on February 5th, with some predicting further cuts.
However, March brings a relief in regulated rail fares remaining frozen, while other train tickets may rise. Later that month, the second interest rate decision and limits on contactless card spending will be announced.
April brings new pay increases for millions, including workers aged 21 and over who'll see their hourly wage rise to £12.71. Energy bills are also expected to decrease due to budget changes. Some household bills may increase, while vehicle excise duty rates will rise in line with inflation.
Finally, tax deadlines approach in April, such as the last chance for self-assessment returns by the 31st of the month, and a change to inheritance tax on certain assets like shares.
In January, mortgage customers on variable-rate deals will start to benefit from December's Bank of England rate cut, but one major change will be an increase in energy prices. The price cap for direct debit customers will rise by 0.2%, effectively costing the average household £3 more per year.
January also marks a new requirement for investors buying or selling cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. HM Revenue & Customs wants to ensure all relevant taxes are paid, so you'll need to provide additional details, including your national insurance number.
The start of February sees the UK's alcohol duty increase by 3.66%, which will add costs to drinkers. The Bank of England also holds its first interest rate decision of the year on February 5th, with some predicting further cuts.
However, March brings a relief in regulated rail fares remaining frozen, while other train tickets may rise. Later that month, the second interest rate decision and limits on contactless card spending will be announced.
April brings new pay increases for millions, including workers aged 21 and over who'll see their hourly wage rise to £12.71. Energy bills are also expected to decrease due to budget changes. Some household bills may increase, while vehicle excise duty rates will rise in line with inflation.
Finally, tax deadlines approach in April, such as the last chance for self-assessment returns by the 31st of the month, and a change to inheritance tax on certain assets like shares.
... so mortgage holders are gonna get some decent rate news, but energy prices are still gonna skyrocket 
. And did you know that the gov is increasing energy price caps by 0.2%?! That's like £3 more on our already tight budgets 
. Not to mention, we gotta deal with higher booze duties 
and train fares could go up later this month 
... what a lovely start to 2026 
, just when we're starting to get used to saving some cash from the rate cut. and now they're making us pay more for trains? that's just not right, man... people should be able to travel without breaking the bank. but hey, at least the new pay increase in April is something to look forward to 
. and on the bright side, energy bills are expected to decrease? that's gotta be good news for households 
.
. I'm not surprised that energy prices are going up - it's about time we realized those prices were too low to begin with 
.
. But others are saying more cuts might not be on the cards... this is all just speculation at this point 
. And now they're raising the price cap by 0.2%? That's like, £3 more for the average household, right? 
I know it sounds tiny but it adds up, you know? And I'm still trying to wrap my head around this crypto tax thing... Do we really need to provide our national insurance number when buying or selling Bitcoin? 
. All these changes are gonna add up, you know? Like that extra £3 per year from energy prices is not much but it's still £3 
. What about you? How are you preparing for 2026?
. Fingers crossed energy bills come down with those budget changes 
️.