Budget 2026: Alcohol prices up, rail fares frozen, benefits increased

The Budget unveiled several significant changes, with key dates for implementation highlighted by The Mirror. Alcohol prices will increase by 3.66% in February 2026, impacting beverages like Prosecco, red wine, and gin. Rail fares in England will remain frozen until 2027, bucking the usual annual increase trend. The two-child benefit cap under Universal Credit will be removed in April 2026. State pension will rise by 4.8% in April 2026, and most DWP benefits will increase in line with inflation rates. Car tax will also see a rise in April 2026, while energy bills are set to decrease by £150. Minimum wage will go up in April 2026, and NHS prescription costs will remain steady at £9.90 per item. The 5p fuel duty cut is temporary until September 2026. Furthermore, the annual cash ISA limit will be reduced to £12,000 for under-65s from April 2027. Tax rates on savings interest and property interest will rise from April 2027, and student loan repayment thresholds will be frozen. Pension funds will be subject to Inheritance Tax from April 2027. Expensive properties will face a new surcharge from April 2028, and electric vehicle drivers will incur new mileage taxes. Lastly, the Help to Save scheme for Universal Credit recipients will become permanent from 2028, and the tax thresholds freeze is extended until April 2031.