HMRC’s latest figures for 2025/26 show a sharp rise in tax receipts, particularly for Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs). The increase reflects the impact of recent tax changes and growing pressure on business owners, investors and employers across the UK.
CGT receipts rose by an astonishing 62% compared to the previous tax year following the increase in CGT rates from 10% and 20% to 18% and 24%. It is understood that many landlords chose to sell properties ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, while some business owners accelerated company sales before further tax changes expected from April 2026.
Kim Major, Personal Tax Partner at Forrester Boyd, said:
“Higher Capital Gains Tax rates are encouraging many individuals to review investment, retirement and succession plans much earlier. The timing of asset disposals can have a significant financial impact, so taking professional advice before making major decisions is becoming increasingly important.”
While CGT is often seen as a tax that can be managed through careful timing, opportunities to reduce exposure are becoming more limited. For individuals with substantial investment portfolios, long-term planning around retirement may help mitigate future liabilities.
Employers are also continuing to feel the impact of increased National Insurance costs. HMRC receipts from Class 1 employer NICs rose to almost £144 billion, an increase of more than £35 billion following changes introduced in April 2025.
At the same time, frozen income tax thresholds continue to pull more taxpayers into higher bands, increasing the overall tax burden even where earnings have not significantly increased.
The latest figures underline the importance of proactive tax planning for both businesses and individuals as the UK tax landscape continues to evolved.
Details of HMRC tax receipts and NICs can be found at HMRC official statistics.
All data and figures referred to in our news section are correct at the date of publishing and should not be relied upon as still current.
