The UK government recorded a surprise surplus in its finances in January despite “substantial spending” to help households with energy bills and one-off payments to the EU.
The government spent less than it received in tax in the month, resulting in a surplus of £5.4bn.
Economists had forecast borrowing of £7.9bn, but record self-assessed income tax receipts led to the surplus.
The figures come as the government is set to deliver its Budget next month.