The freeze on income tax thresholds, which has been in place since April 6, 2021, is projected to significantly affect taxpayers across the UK. This policy, originally announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak and later extended to 2028 by Jeremy Hunt, will remain until April 5, 2031, resulting in a decade of unchanged thresholds.
Currently, the personal allowance stands at £12,570, while the higher rate threshold is set at £50,270. The implications of this freeze are considerable, with basic rate taxpayers potentially losing up to £700.36 in the coming year. Higher rate taxpayers could face an even steeper burden, with estimates suggesting they may pay as much as £3,500 more in taxes.
The freeze is expected to push over 6 million people into the income tax system by the fiscal year 2030/31. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has projected that this policy will result in an additional 4.8 million higher rate taxpayers within the same timeframe.
In response to the freeze, the Scottish Conservatives have proposed raising the personal allowance to £13,892 by 2031. Their plan also includes the introduction of a new 0% tax band above the UK-set personal allowance, while ensuring that the higher rate threshold in Scotland aligns with the UK tax system at £50,270.
This freeze affects every taxpayer earning over the current personal allowance, raising concerns about the long-term implications for disposable income and economic activity. As the government navigates these changes, the financial strain on taxpayers is expected to grow.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential adjustments to the freeze or alternative tax relief measures that may be introduced in the future.
