DWP and HMRC changes in October - from Universal Credit migration to tax deadline

October will see a host of changes to the benefits and social security system in the run-up to and during the highly anticipated Autumn Statement

Benefit recipients could be facing an entirely different financial situation by the end of the month following Labour’s first Autumn Statement on October 30. Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ announcements are expected to include PIP reform plans, state pension increases, inheritance tax and capital gains tax changes, single person’s discount on council tax potentially scrapped and confirmation of previously announced changes like the tightening eligibility criteria of Winter Fuel Payments.

However, HMRC and DWP are enacting some changes to the benefits system in the run-up to the budget with some already being implemented. This starts with the moveover to Universal Credit with more legacy benefit recipients expected to receive Migration Notices.

Universal Credit migration

Martin Lewis has warned Brits not to ignore these letters as it could result in their benefits being stopped. Currently, people on Employment and Support Allowance and Jobseeker’s Allowance have been sent letters over the last month despite the original migration timeline seeing them move in 2028/2029.

Household Support Fund extension

This council-focused support has been extended for another six months from October to March, with an additional £421million dolled out to councils who can individually decide how it can best be used to support the most vulnerable in their communities. An extra £49million is being given to 14 local authorities in the West Midlands with the DWP hoping it will help the 600,000 households in poverty in the region.

Warm Home Discount reopening

Every October the Warm Home Discount benefit scheme reopens, providing £150 to those on eligible benefits in certain properties with high energy costs. Roughly 2.5 million people received the automatic benefit benefit for the 2022/2023 winter season. It will also depend on whether your energy provider is taking part in the scheme, which you can find online.

Winter Fuel Payment letters

With the crackdown on Winter Fuel Payments, the 1.5 million residents still eligible will be receiving their entitlement letters from this month and into November. The letters will explain if they’re getting the £200 or £300 rate for the benefit.

HMRC tax return deadlines

October 5 marks the deadline to register for self-assessment tax returns if you have not sent one in before. This can be done online and those who plan to make their tax return on paper forms must also submit it before midnight on October 31. Those doing their returns online have until January 31, 2025 to submit.