Rule Changes February 2026: The changes beginning February 1, 2026, directly impact the common man's pockets, spending, and planning. Budget, taxes, gas, investments, and government schemes—every front will see something new.

February Rule Change: The month of February is about to begin as January ends, and this year's start will be very special for ordinary people. On February 1, 2026, while the country's general budget will be presented, many major rules related to everyday life will also change. These changes will directly impact your budget, household expenses, tax planning, investments, and daily needs.

From gas cylinders to cigarettes, from the stock market to farmers and government employees, something big is about to change for everyone. Therefore, it's important to understand what exactly is going to change from February 1st and how it will affect your pocketbook and life.

Budget 2026 will be presented on February 1

On February 1, 2026, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the General Budget in Parliament. This will be her ninth consecutive budget. Salaried individuals, taxpayers, farmers, and investors have high expectations from this budget. In particular, people are hoping for clear and simple rules regarding income tax. The new tax regime already in effect exempts income up to ₹12.75 lakh from tax, but now people want to know the differences between the old and new tax systems and which one will be more beneficial.

Expectations of income tax relief in the budget

Budget 2026 is expected to focus specifically on income tax regulations. Employed individuals want tax exemptions on expenses like NPS, health insurance, and home loans under the new tax regime. Additionally, the tax return filing process should be simplified so that ordinary people can file their returns without hassle. The budget is also expected to provide clarity regarding capital gains tax and tax exemptions.

The stock market will remain open on the budget day on February 1.

If you invest or trade in the stock market, this information is crucial. The budget will be presented on Sunday, February 1, 2026, but both the NSE and BSE will remain open. The exchanges have clarified that the markets will open at their normal hours, with trading scheduled from 9:15 am to 3:30 pm. The budget will be presented at 11 am, which could cause market fluctuations.

New prices of LPG cylinders will be applicable

Like every month, new LPG cylinder prices will be announced on February 1st. Oil companies will determine the new rates for domestic and commercial cylinders. The price of the 19-kg commercial cylinder has been fluctuating for a long time. Last month, its price was also reduced by ₹14.50. Now, with the new prices announced on February 1st, it will become clear whether your kitchen budget will be lighter or heavier.

Prices of CNG, PNG and ATF will also change.

Like LPG, the prices of CNG, PNG, and aviation fuel will also be revised. The new rates will take effect on February 1st. If CNG and PNG prices increase, it will directly impact travel and household expenses. Meanwhile, changes in ATF prices could lead to higher or lower airfares.

Pan masala, cigarettes and tobacco will become expensive

Starting February 1st, users of pan masala, cigarettes, and tobacco may face a major setback. According to reports, the government is imposing higher taxes on these products. In addition to GST, separate excise duties and cess will be levied. Pan masala will also face additional health and national security-related taxes. This clearly indicates that these items may become more expensive in the coming days.

10 days bank holidays in February

February will begin with a holiday. According to the list released by the RBI, banks will be closed for approximately 10 days in February 2026. This includes weekly holidays as well as special holidays like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. If you have any important bank-related work to do, be sure to check the holiday list first.

Eye on the 22nd installment of PM Kisan

Farmers also have high expectations from Budget 2026. Amid rising farming costs, they want the annual PM Kisan Yojana amount to be increased by ₹6,000. However, no official announcement has been made by the government yet. Following the old pattern, installments are released every four months. Therefore, it is believed that the 22nd installment may arrive in the last week of February 2026. The likelihood of it arriving before the budget is considered low.

The stir over the 8th Pay Commission has intensified.

The month of February could be crucial for government employees and pensioners. A major meeting of employee unions is scheduled for February 25th. It will discuss the formation of the 8th Pay Commission and the demand for a fitment factor of 3.0. If the fitment factor is increased, employees' basic salaries could see a significant increase. Currently, the fitment factor is 2.57.

The new Income Tax Act will be implemented from April.

The government is implementing a new Income Tax Act from April 2026. This law will replace the old 1961 Act. The new law has reduced the number of sections and chapters to simplify and clarify the rules. New tax return forms will also be released by January 2026, making filing returns easier than ever.

What impact will these changes have on your pocket?

The changes beginning February 1, 2026, directly impact the common man's finances, spending, and planning. Budget, taxes, gas, investments, and government schemes will see new developments on every front. Therefore, it's crucial to stay informed about these changes in advance so you can make timely decisions.

PC:NDTVINDIA