Press release

National insurance cut is Chancellor’s most expensive measure

22 November 2023

Rachel McEleney, associate tax director at Deloitte, commented: 

“The Chancellor announced that the rate of national insurance payable by employees on earnings between £1,048 and £4,189 per month will reduce from 12% to 10% from 6 January 2024. This will result in the individual’s national insurance deductions reducing by up to £62.82 per month. 

“It also means that a minimum wage worker earning £1,600 per month will save just over £11 a month. The 2% rate that applies to earnings above £4,189 per month remains in place. The thresholds remain unchanged. 

“Although there had been rumours of national insurance reductions, the speed and size of the change was a surprise. The cost of this measure comes in at nearly £9bn per year, making it by far the most expensive announcement in today’s Autumn Statement. 

“The Chancellor also announced that the rate of national insurance for the self-employed for profits between £12,570 and £50,270 will reduce from 9% to 8% from 6 April 2024. The rate on profits above £50,270 remains at 2%. Additionally, Class 2 national insurance, which is currently a flat weekly amount of £3.45, will be abolished. 

“These changes create a saving of up to £556.40 in 2024/25 compared to 2023/24. Those who pay voluntary Class 2 contributions to maintain their national insurance record will still be able to do so from 6 April 2024. The amount payable is frozen at its current level of £3.45 rather than increasing with inflation.”

 

 

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Deloitte spokespeople

Deloitte has a range of spokespeople available to comment on today’s Autumn Statement. They can be reached on 020 7007 3333 or 0207 303 5054 or one of the following numbers:

• Ian Stewart - chief economist (07774 337 581)

• Amanda Tickel - head of tax policy (07920 270 964)

• Rachel McEleney - personal tax (07826 891 752)

• Alison Lobb - corporate tax (07768 178264)

• Michael Nicolaides - employment tax (07586 511 104)

• Richard Johnson - business rates (07774 337 581)

 

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