Research by Kent Reliance found that 35 per cent of UK adults said they were saving more than normal during the third quarter of 2026, up from 28 per cent in the previous quarter.

The findings come ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget on October 28, with many people appearing to put money aside as a precaution.

Almost one in five people surveyed said they were increasing their monthly savings ahead of the Budget, while 23 per cent said they were cutting back on spending in case taxes increase.

The survey also found one in seven people had delayed a major purchase or financial decision until after the Government announces its plans.

The increase in savings was particularly noticeable among younger adults.

More than six in 10 millennials said they were saving more than usual, compared with around four in 10 three months earlier.

Generation Z also reported strong saving habits, with just over half saying they were putting away more money.

However, the picture was less positive among older generations.

Only 20 per cent of Generation X respondents and 15 per cent of Baby Boomers said they were saving more than usual.

Despite the increase in saving, many households continue to face financial pressures.

A third of people surveyed said a lack of disposable income was preventing them from saving more.

Louise Halliwell, group savings director at Kent Reliance, said it was encouraging to see more people putting money aside despite ongoing challenges.

She said: “It’s encouraging to see more people saving in Q3, with Millennials leading the way.

“However, the broader picture is more complicated, with many saving as a precaution while uncertainty around the Budget remains.

“People are trying to build a buffer before they know exactly what they’re planning for.”

The survey also found that 12 per cent of people had moved money into or out of an ISA or pension ahead of potential changes to savings and tax rules.

The findings are based on a poll of 1,500 UK adults conducted between September 7 and September 16.

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