Raise the income tax threshold to £20K per year

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The Issue

Living in a low-income household means facing financial challenges at every corner. I know firsthand what it's like to juggle bills, essential expenses, and unexpected costs, all while trying to make ends meet on a tight budget. This struggle is not unique to me; it's a reality for millions across the UK. Raising the income tax threshold to £20,000 a year could offer the relief we desperately need.

Currently, the personal allowance threshold stands at £12,570, meaning any income over this amount is subject to tax. For many low-income households, this threshold feels like a penalty for earning just a bit more. It places an undue burden on families simply trying to sustain themselves.

By raising the threshold to £20,000, an estimated 7 million UK residents would experience immediate financial relief. This change would allow households to retain more of their hard-earned money, spend on immediate necessities, and potentially even save for emergencies, thus stabilising financial security.

Moreover, such an adjustment would have long-term economic benefits. When families have more to spend, they contribute to the economy through increased consumption, which in turn supports businesses and broadens the tax base in a more balanced way.

For many, this increase in the income tax threshold would mean the ability to afford healthier food for their children, pay for educational resources, or simply not have to choose between heating and eating during the winter months. It's a step towards a fairer society where everyone has the dignity of financial stability and the opportunity to improve their quality of life.

I urge the government to consider this vital change. Our current tax system needs to adapt to the modern cost of living and support those who need it the most. Please sign this petition to call on policymakers to raise the income tax threshold to £20,000 a year and bring meaningful change for low-income households across our nation.

The Decision Makers

Kelly O'Dwyer
Former Minister for Revenue and Financial Services and former Minister for Women
Nick Clegg MP
Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Liberal Democrats
Esther McVey MP
Minister of State for Employment
Andy Burnham
Prime Minister

Petition Updates