Preparing for 2029: Adapting to the Budget's salary sacrifice cap

'While this policy alters the landscape, it arguably represents an adjustment rather than a fundamental reform'

clock • 3 min read

The burden of the chancellor's salary sacrifice cap policy primarily lands on the shoulders of British businesses, writes Steve Charlton

Each year, rumours swirl that pension tax reform is on the horizon. Prior to the 2024 Autumn Budget, there were speculated changes to tax relief, including the removal or limitation of tax-free cash lump sums and the National Insurance exemption on employer pension contributions. This year, the government responded to what it describes as a looming fiscal gap by enacting the much-rumoured cap on salary sacrifice pension contributions, turning speculation into reality. While expected to generate revenue of £4.8bn in 2029/30, and £2.6bn in 2030/31, the changes come at a time when the am...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Pensions

Govt moves to tackle gender pension gap with LPGS scheme changes

Govt moves to tackle gender pension gap with LPGS scheme changes

Reforms follow consultation on access and fairness in the Local Government Pension Scheme

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 03 February 2026 • 2 min read
Britain's pension ambition is rising - just as cash resilience slips

Britain's pension ambition is rising - just as cash resilience slips

'2026's 'pension resolution' wave is real. But so is the cash-cushion squeeze'

Phillip Wickenden
clock 02 February 2026 • 6 min read
Government again rejects Waspi compensation after review

Government again rejects Waspi compensation after review

DWP: Creation of compensation scheme would be ‘highly impractical’ and ‘time-consuming’

Martin Richmond
clock 29 January 2026 • 3 min read