October is shaping up to be a significant month for your finances, with key dates you need to mark on your calendar. Energy bills are on the rise at the beginning of the month, but there’s good news with a scheme reopening that offers a £150 discount on electricity costs. Keep an eye on this if you need help managing your expenses.

For those who need to apply, the Winter Fuel Payment phone line will reopen, although most people will receive it automatically. Self-employed individuals have a busy month ahead as the self-assessment tax registration deadline approaches.

If you prefer filing your self-assessment tax by post, there is a deadline for that too. The Ofgem energy price cap is also set to increase from £1,720 to £1,755 per year starting October 1, impacting typical dual fuel households paying by direct debit.

Remember to register with HMRC by October 5 if it’s your first time submitting a self-assessment tax return. You can check if you need to complete a tax return on GOV.UK, especially if you’re self-employed or have additional untaxed income.

Winter Fuel Payments, with potential benefits of up to £300, will be automatically given to most eligible individuals. However, some may need to apply, especially those who have deferred their state pension. The Tesco Christmas Saver scheme deadline for deposits is October 16, allowing you to save Clubcard points for holiday shopping.

The Office for National Statistics will release the latest inflation data on October 2, revealing how prices have fluctuated. Remember to file your self-assessment tax return by post by October 31 to avoid late penalties. If you are eligible for the Warm Home Discount, you should expect a letter by October 20, providing a £150 reduction on your electricity bill.

These financial deadlines and opportunities in October are essential to keep your finances in check.