Budget 2025: What Could Be on the Horizon?

With the chancellor confirming that the Autumn Budget will take place on 26 November, the annual rumour mill has begun. Speculation is already swirling about possible tax changes, and for good reason. After a turbulent first year, the government is battling weak growth, rising long-term borrowing and falling approval ratings. Yet its self-imposed promise not to raise income tax, National Insurance (NI) or VAT for “working people” has left it with few obvious levers to pull.

A recent newsletter we received highlighted what Rachel Vahey, head of public policy at AJ Bell, has addressed as five areas the chancellor may be tempted to explore:

1. Extending Frozen Tax Thresholds

Tax thresholds are currently frozen until 2028. Extending the freeze would pull more people into higher tax bands (“fiscal drag”), but the chancellor previously ruled this out for personal income tax and NI – reversing that stance could be politically awkward.

2. A ‘Mansion Tax’

An annual property tax on homes worth over £500,000 has been floated, potentially replacing stamp duty. Details are scarce, and this may be a case of “kite-flying” to gauge public reaction.

3. Another Move on Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

After last year’s CGT rise, there’s speculation about further changes, including equalising CGT rates with income tax. Any move would likely need to be implemented immediately to avoid a rush of asset sales before April.

4. National Insurance on Retirement Income

Applying NI to retirement income would be controversial. It’s unclear whether it would break the government’s promise not to raise taxes on “working people,” but it would almost certainly be unpopular – particularly with pensioners still frustrated over the winter fuel payment changes.

5. Inheritance Tax (IHT) Changes

With farmers and pensions already affected by recent measures, the chancellor could turn to IHT. Lowering allowance thresholds, tightening gift rules or extending the seven-year rule wouldn’t generate fast revenue but might still be seen as an option.

And What About Pensions Tax Relief?

Changes to tax-free cash or contribution relief aren’t on the official list, but rumours continue. These are especially sensitive for public sector workers with defined-benefit pensions, where even small tweaks could prompt strong resistance – including strike threats.

Why This Matters for Clients

All this speculation creates uncertainty for long-term planning and undermines confidence in saving for retirement.

We understand clients will be looking to you for clear, balanced advice. Clear Finance will also offer advice to help you make sensible, long-term decisions rather than reacting to rumours will be more important than ever as the Budget approaches.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Clear Finance: A Reputation Built on Trust and 5-Star Service

In today’s world, choosing the right financial partner can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, looking for the right insurance policy, or seeking expert financial advice, you want reassurance that the company you’re working with is reliable, knowledgeable, and trusted by others. At Clear Finance in Doncaster, we’re proud to say our reputation speaks for itself.

Across multiple platforms including Google Business, Facebook, and Yell, Clear Finance has consistently earned 5-star reviews from clients who appreciate our professionalism, transparency, and personal approach. For us, it’s not just about numbers and paperwork – it’s about guiding people through some of life’s biggest financial decisions with confidence and clarity.

Why Clients Recommend Clear Finance

Our clients’ feedback highlights the values that set us apart:

  • Clear and honest advice – We take the time to understand your goals and explain your options in simple terms.

  • Stress-free processes – Whether it’s a first-time mortgage or a complex insurance requirement, our team makes the journey straightforward.

  • Reliable communication – Clients consistently praise our updates, quick responses, and the reassurance we provide throughout the process.

  • Going the extra mile – From urgent home insurance to securing the best mortgage lender, we’re here to deliver solutions when you need them most.

Here’s what some of our customers have said:

  • “Connor helped us from start to finish on our first mortgage application – stress free and easy.”

  • “Steve always comes through and helped us out with constant updates and great communication.”

  • “Ali and Nikki were very knowledgeable and helped me secure urgent home insurance when others couldn’t.”

A Reputation You Can Trust

At Clear Finance, our goal is simple: to provide financial advice and solutions that make a real difference to people’s lives. The trust we’ve built online reflects the trust we’ve earned in person – one client at a time.

So, if you’re looking for a mortgage, insurance, or financial guidance in Doncaster and beyond, choose the company that people are consistently rating 5 stars. With Clear Finance, you’re not just a number – you’re a valued client, and your peace of mind is our priority.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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What the Latest Interest Rate Cut Means for You

Bank Rate Drops to 4% — What Happened?

On 7 August 2025, the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee voted by a slim 5–4 majority to reduce the Bank Rate from 4.25% to 4%, marking the fifth cut in just over a year. It’s the lowest level since March 2023.

The vote was particularly tight. One member initially pushed for a larger cut but settled on 0.25% after a second round of voting; the first time such a procedure was needed in the Committee’s history.

Why This Matters for You

Borrowers (Especially with Variable-Rate Mortgages)

If you’re on a tracker or variable-rate mortgage, your payments should soon fall, great news as borrowing becomes cheaper. Even if you’re on a fixed rate, newer deals are reacting to the base rate, so now could be a smart time to remortgage or compare offers.

Savers

This is where the picture gets trickier. Many banks have already cut savings rates—some by more than 0.5%—in response to the Bank Rate drop. At the same time, inflation rose to 3.8% in July, and is projected to peak at 4.0% in September. That means your savings may now be losing real value.

Inflation & Economic Outlook

Despite the rate cut, inflation remains high—driven by rising food and transport costs—and the BoE expects it to breach 4% in September before easing.

While most economists anticipate one more cut later this year (likely November) and possibly another in early 2026, optimism is cautious given inflation’s persistence.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Clear Finance’s Everyday Solutions

Money worries affect more than just your wallet, they can impact your stress levels, family life, and future plans. At Clear Finance, we believe everyone deserves straightforward financial help they can trust. That’s why our team in Doncaster offers eleven different financial services designed specifically for everyday people.

Whether you’re struggling to stay on top of existing payments, need help purchasing a vehicle, or just want some breathing space, we’re here to help. Our services include mortgage advice, pensions, savings, insurance advice, and more, each one tailored to fit your unique circumstances, not a generic checklist.

We understand that not everyone has perfect credit or a flawless financial history, and that’s okay. Clear Finance is built on real-world understanding, offering support without judgement and advice you can actually use. Our friendly team explains everything in plain language and makes sure you fully understand your options before making any decisions.

What sets us apart is our local, personalised approach. As a Doncaster-based team, we’re proud to support individuals and families across South Yorkshire and beyond. We’ve helped hundreds of people take control of their finances, and we’d love to help you too.

Clear Finance exists to make financial support easier, not harder. With eleven flexible services at your fingertips, getting back on track has never been more accessible. From everyday challenges to longer-term planning, we’re by your side.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards better financial health, reach out to Clear Finance today.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Clear Finance – Everyday Financial Support You Can Trust

At Clear Finance in Doncaster, we understand that managing money isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re juggling everyday bills, dealing with unexpected expenses, or planning for the future, having access to practical and reliable financial support can make all the difference.

That’s why we offer a wide range of financial services, tailored to help everyday people take control of their finances. Our approach is built around real-life situations, offering accessible solutions with no hidden surprises. Our services are designed to relieve pressure and help you move forward with confidence.

We know that everyone’s financial situation is unique. That’s why we take the time to listen, understand your circumstances, and guide you to the right solution. You don’t need to be a finance expert, that’s our job. We’re here to simplify the process, explain everything clearly, and support you every step of the way.

Based right here in Doncaster, Clear Finance is proud to serve our local community with a friendly, non-judgemental approach. We’re not a big faceless lender, we’re your neighbours, ready to help you find the right path to financial clarity.

If you’re looking for finance that’s clear, honest, and built around real needs, we’re here for you. Get in touch today to learn more about how our eleven tailored financial services can support your goals.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Why Choose Clear Finance as Your Trusted Financial Broker

When it comes to making big financial decisions—whether it’s buying your first home, refinancing, or securing a loan—you want more than just a quick online quote. You want expert guidance, personalised advice, and a team that’s genuinely on your side.

That’s exactly what we offer at Clear Finance through our dedicated financial broker services.

What Does a Financial Broker Actually Do?

Think of us as your financial compass. Instead of going directly to one bank or lender (and limiting your options), we do the hard work for you—comparing dozens of lenders and financial products to find the one that suits your needs best.

Whether you’re looking for:

  • ✅ A better mortgage deal

  • ✅ Personal or business loans

  • ✅ Insurance products

  • ✅ Help with credit concerns

We match you with the most competitive, transparent, and appropriate options on the market—saving you time, stress, and money.

Why Use Clear Finance?

1. Whole-of-Market Access

We’re not tied to one lender or provider. That means we can explore the entire market, including exclusive deals you won’t find on comparison sites.

2. Tailored Advice

We take time to understand your situation—your goals, challenges, and future plans—so we can recommend what truly works for you, not just what’s available.

3. No Nasty Surprises

We’re called Clear Finance for a reason. No hidden fees. No confusing small print. Just honest, transparent advice from experienced brokers.

4. End-to-End Support

From your first chat to signing on the dotted line, we’re with you every step of the way—answering questions, explaining jargon, and keeping the process smooth and stress-free.

Mortgage? Loan? Insurance? We’ve Got You Covered

We help clients with:

  • Mortgages – First-time buyers, remortgages, buy-to-let

  • Loans – Personal, secured, or business lending

  • Insurance – Life cover, income protection, home insurance

  • Debt Consolidation – Smarter solutions for managing debt

No matter what stage you’re at, we’ll help you move forward with confidence.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Another Happy Homeowner

A huge thank you to Jess for this glowing review of her experience with Connor at Clear Finance

“Connor has helped us from start to finish on a mortgage application for our first house… He made the process stress free and easy… found a mortgage with good rates and bonuses… and even sorted our life insurance. One less thing to worry about!”

This is exactly what we’re here for – clear advice, great deals, and total support every step of the way. Whether you’re buying your first home or remortgaging, we’ll make sure you feel confident and in control from start to finish.

💬 Thinking about your next move? Let’s have a chat.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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What the Latest Interest Rate Changes Mean for You

Interest rate decisions by the Bank of England (BoE) have real-world effects—on mortgage bills, savings accounts, and the broader economy. Let’s unpack the most recent developments and what they mean for your finances.

BoE Holds Rates Steady at 4.25% (June 2025)

At its meeting on June 18, the BoE’s Monetary Policy Committee voted 6–3 to keep the Bank Rate at 4.25% bankofengland.co.uk+3bankofengland.co.uk+3tradingeconomics.com+3. The decision came amid signs of high inflation (CPI at 3.4%) and a cooling jobs market—slow wage growth, fewer payroll jobs, and cautious consumer spending .

Their overall stance is described as “gradual and careful”: avoiding any preset path and waiting for clearer evidence from inflation and employment trends

What This Means for Clear Finance Clients

  1. Refinancing Opportunities
    If you’re renewing your mortgage or considering a new deal, staying ahead of the rate cycle could help you lock in a better rate—especially if cuts begin in August.

  2. Smart Savings Strategy
    Even with a potential dip in rates, there are still attractive savings accounts. We can help you find and compare the best options to suit your goals.

  3. Forward Planning
    Whether you’re first-time buying, remortgaging, or investing in buy-to-let, our advice ensures you’ll be ready—without surprises—if the BoE changes course.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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Clear Finance: Experts in Every Area

When it comes to your finances, advice matters—but who that advice comes from matters even more. At Clear Finance, we’ve built a team of specialists who know their areas inside out. That means no guesswork, no generic advice—just clear, expert guidance tailored to your specific needs.

A Team Built Around You

Every client has a different financial journey, so we’ve structured our team to reflect that. Rather than being “generalists,” our advisers are focused on specific areas of finance, giving you access to deep knowledge and insight—no matter your situation.

Mortgage Experts

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, remortgaging, or investing in buy-to-let, our mortgage advisers are here to guide you. They stay up to date on rates, lender criteria, and market trends, ensuring you get the best deal possible with no nasty surprises.

✅ First-time buyers
✅ Remortgages
✅ Buy-to-let and portfolio lending
✅ Self-employed & complex cases

🛡️ Insurance & Protection Advisors

It’s not just about what you borrow—it’s about protecting it too. Our insurance experts will help you safeguard your home, family, and income with tailored policies that offer real peace of mind.

✅ Life insurance
✅ Critical illness cover
✅ Income protection
✅ Buildings & contents insurance

Savings Specialists

Whether you’re saving for a home, building a rainy-day fund, or looking to make the most of your ISA allowance, our savings experts will help you choose the right strategy. With access to the best accounts and providers, we’ll make sure your money works smarter.

✅ Cash ISAs & savings accounts
✅ High-interest accounts
✅ Short & long-term savings plans
✅ Children’s savings

Pension & Retirement Planners

Looking ahead to retirement? Our pension advisers help you take control of your future—whether you’re just getting started or reviewing existing pensions. We’ll help you understand your options, maximise contributions, and plan for a retirement that’s as comfortable as it should be.

✅ Pension reviews & consolidation
✅ Workplace & private pensions
✅ Retirement income planning
✅ Tax-efficient drawdown strategies

What This Means for You

At Clear Finance, you’re not getting a “one-size-fits-all” approach. You’re working with a dedicated specialist who understands your needs, speaks your language, and gives you straight, honest advice from day one.

We believe financial guidance should be clear, personal, and powerful—and that’s exactly what our team delivers every day.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

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5 Mistakes People Make When They Don’t Use a Broker

Why Going It Alone Could Cost You More Than You Think

When it comes to making big financial decisions—whether it’s securing a mortgage, protecting your family with insurance, or planning for retirement—it’s tempting to head straight to your bank or do a quick online search. But without expert guidance, you could be missing out on better deals, better protection, and long-term peace of mind.

At Clear Finance, we’ve helped hundreds of people across Doncaster make smarter financial choices. And over the years, we’ve seen firsthand the common mistakes people make when they don’t use a broker.

Here are 5 of the most common pitfalls—and how we help you avoid them:

1. Choosing the Wrong Mortgage for Your Needs

Banks and lenders typically only show you their mortgage products—not what’s best for you. Without a broker, you might:

  • Lock into a rate that’s not competitive

  • Miss out on exclusive deals not available directly to consumers

  • Overlook hidden fees or early repayment charges

Clear Finance works with a wide range of lenders to match your financial goals—not just push a product.

2. Overpaying for Life Insurance or Critical Illness Cover

Comparison sites don’t tell the full story. People often:

  • Pay too much for cover they don’t need

  • Get too little protection for what really matters

  • Forget to factor in things like inflation, dependents, or job risk

We tailor policies to your lifestyle and budget, ensuring your family is properly protected—without overspending.

3. Ignoring Pension Performance or Planning Too Late

It’s easy to put pensions on the back burner—but delays or poor investment choices can significantly affect your retirement income.

  • Are your pension funds working hard enough?

  • Do you know how much you’ll actually need in retirement?

  • Are you making the most of your tax allowances?

Clear Finance offers straightforward pension reviews to help you build a secure financial future—starting today.

4. Trying to DIY Investments Without Proper Guidance

Many people either avoid investing altogether or dive in without understanding the risks. That can lead to:

  • Poor returns

  • Missed opportunities

  • Costly mistakes in volatile markets

We offer personalised investment advice based on your goals, risk level, and time frame—not generic tips from the internet.

5. Missing Out on the Human Touch

Most importantly, going direct or online means you miss the personal service and expert advice that a broker provides. Financial decisions aren’t one-size-fits-all—and you deserve more than a chatbot or call centre.

With Clear Finance, you get real people, real advice, and long-term support you can rely on.

For more information about our Financial Services and products in Doncaster call 01302 835938

Please ’Like us’ on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/clearfinance.net/

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 Clear Finance  | 6 South Parade, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 2DY
Phone: 01302 835938 | Email: [email protected]
FCA : 482616

Clear Finance  authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under FRN 482616. 6 South Parade, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 2DY. Clear Finance  are a credit broker and not a lender. We offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders.

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