How owner-managed businesses can prepare for the UK Autumn Budget
24 September 2025
The UK Autumn Budget is confirmed for 26 November 2025, presenting owner-managed businesses (OMBs) with an important opportunity to prepare proactively. While the exact measures are yet to be announced, this period before the Budget is crucial for reviewing your business’s financial, tax, and succession planning to mitigate risks and maximise benefits.
Key preparation areas for OMBs ahead of the November Budget:
Inheritance tax and succession planning
Inheritance Tax (IHT) reform is widely expected. Changes to lifetime gifting rules or taper relief could affect how estates are valued and taxed. For OMBs, this means:
• Reviewing your succession and estate plans now to ensure assets are efficiently structured.
• Consider using trusts, family partnerships, gifts or share arrangements to minimise future IHT liabilities.
Pension contributions and tax relief
Budget talks include potential amendments to pension tax relief and salary sacrifice arrangements.
• Evaluate strategies around pension contribution to optimise current reliefs.
• Stay informed on salary sacrifice rules to remain compliant.
Capital Gains Tax reform
Possible reforms to Capital Gains Tax (CGT), including adjustments to Business Asset Disposal relief, could affect decisions on the timing and value of asset disposals and shareholder transitions.
• Consider reviewing the timing of planned sales or transfers of assets or shares to optimise outcomes ahead of any changes.
• Keep detailed records of valuations and gains to ensure future flexibility and accurate reporting.
Cash flow and cost control
Tight government fiscal rules mean that tax changes may increase business costs, affecting cash flow.
• Cash flow forecasting is important to understand any tax implications, National Insurance, or business rate increases.
• Identify operational efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities to improve resilience.
Compliance and technology
Increasing HMRC focus on digital compliance means OMBs should double-check software, payroll, VAT, and reporting systems.
• Consider upgrades to cloud accounting software.
• Protect against tax enquiry risks through professional advice or insurance.
Waiting until after the Budget announcement can limit your options as some decisions take immediate effect. Early preparation allows for:
• Tailored tax and succession planning strategies.
• Smooth financial forecasting and cash flow management.
• Peace of mind through compliance readiness.
How Moore South can help you
Moore UK specialises in supporting owner-managed businesses through tax planning, compliance, and strategic advice. Contact our expert team today to review your position and prepare confidently for the 2025 Autumn Budget.