All new UK laws for 2023 including increase in council tax, parking and energy bills - what you need to know

After a trying 2022 and the ongoing cost of living crisis still plaguing the nation, many people are hoping the new year might bring some sort of improvement. Unfortunately, as 2023 gets underway, new laws and restrictions set to be introduced, could impact already stretched budgets even further.

Despite protests about tax and energy bill increases, changes are set to come into effect increasing household expenditure. It’s not all doom and gloom, though, as the government will also raise pensions as planned in April in order to keep up with inflation.

Drivers will also face new road rules once Scotland becomes the first complete UK nation to prohibit pavement parking, with England anticipated to follow suit. These are just some of the changes being introduced, let’s take a look at more of the new laws coming in 2023.

Council tax increase 2023

Council tax is expected to climb again. The projected increase in 2023 will be more than in previous years rising by 5% in this year compared to  3% in previous years .

According to the OBR, this rise will generate £4.8 billion annually by 2028. However, the TaxPayers’ Alliance has stated the increase will place additional strain on families already struggling to pay their bills. Beginning in April, the personal income tax rate in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will be frozen. This freeze will remain in effect until 2028.

Pensions and benefits