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

Women's pensions: Why the gender savings gap opens at age 28

Women's pensions: Why the gender savings gap opens at age 28

Women in their late 50s hold 48% less in their pension than men

Rachel Vahey
clock 11 June 2026 • 3 min read
DC pension pot growth points to increased fraud risk, pensions minister warns

DC pension pot growth points to increased fraud risk, pensions minister warns

Torsten Bell says expanding DC pots will attract increased fraudster attention

Martin Richmond
clock 11 June 2026 • 2 min read
Revised transfer regs widely backed but industry calls for 'clear and practical' guidance

Revised transfer regs widely backed but industry calls for 'clear and practical' guidance

DWP makes key changes to traffic-light transfer conditions

Jonathan Stapleton
clock 10 June 2026 • 7 min read