A number of new changes are coming for Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) claimants and more in October 2024, set to impact UK households. Among the changes is the opening of the Winter Fuel Payment phone lines. Most eligible individuals will automatically receive Winter Fuel Payments worth up to £300, but some will need to apply via phone from October 28. In addition to the Winter Fuel Allowance, there are nine other changes and financial rules affecting people.
One significant change is the increase in the Ofgem energy price cap from October 1. This rise will result in an average annual energy bill increase to £1,717 for gas and electricity. Another change includes the opening of the Warm Home Discount in October, providing eligible individuals with £150 towards their energy bills. Additionally, new mobile roaming rules are set to take effect from October 1, requiring clearer information from mobile providers when customers start roaming.
The deadline to register for self-assessment is approaching, with registrations due by October 5 for the previous tax year. The price of standard first-class stamps is increasing by 22% starting October 7, announced by Royal Mail. Stamp purchased prior to the increase will remain valid. New fraud protection rules for banks, effective October 7, will enforce mandatory refunds with a cap of £85,000, covering over 99% of claims.
The Office for National Statistics will release the latest inflation data on October 16, measuring price changes over time. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is scheduled to present Labour’s first Budget on October 30, involving tax, spending, and benefits decisions. For those filing self-assessment via paper return, the deadline is midnight on October 31. HMRC must receive the return by this date.