As the new tax year looms and global conflicts, including the war in Iran, create uncertainty over interest rates, energy costs, and the broader cost of living, households across the UK are facing mounting financial pressures. Personal finance expert Gabriel Nussbaum is stepping in to answer your questions and offer practical tips to make your money work harder in these challenging times.
Navigating Financial Uncertainty in 2026
The Bank of England has maintained interest rates at 3.75 per cent, with ongoing global tensions keeping inflation risks elevated and delaying anticipated rate cuts. This situation means that mortgages remain expensive, and many families are struggling to find relief from stubbornly high bills. The conflict in Iran adds another layer of uncertainty, potentially impacting energy prices and economic stability.
Key Changes in the New Tax Year
Starting on 6 April, a series of tax changes will quietly reshape personal finances. Dividend taxes are set to rise, and the working from home allowance is being scrapped, while key thresholds and allowances remain tight. For savers, this is a final opportunity to use the current year's ISA allowance before it resets, with future cash ISA limits expected to shrink. On a positive note, higher minimum wages will boost incomes for some workers, though this may be offset by rising costs elsewhere.
In summary, a lot is changing, and not all of these shifts are immediately obvious, making expert guidance more valuable than ever.
How to Participate in the Q&A Session
To ask a question, ensure you are logged into a registered account on independent.co.uk. If you need to register or log in, do so and then return to this page to submit your query. Gabriel Nussbaum will be answering questions live, cutting through the noise to explain what these financial developments mean for your money. Whether your concerns involve mortgages, rent, bills, savings, tax, or day-to-day spending, he will help you understand the current situation, what to watch for in the coming weeks, and actionable steps you can take.
No question is too big or too small—whether you're trying to prepare for the new tax year, stretch your budget further, or simply sense-check your next financial move. Submit your question now, or join the live Q&A on Tuesday 24 March between 12pm and 1pm GMT. If you encounter issues posting, double-check that you are logged into your registered account on independent.co.uk.
Additional Resources for Financial Insight
For more tips and tricks, consider signing up for the Independent Money newsletter. It provides the insights you need to take control of your finances and make your money work smarter, offering ongoing support beyond this Q&A session. With expert advice and timely information, you can navigate the complexities of the cost of living crisis more effectively.
