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 In April, financial matters take centre stage as the start of the new tax year arrives, bringing about higher bills alongside improved benefits provided by the Department for Work and Pensions.


 A new
 Ocean Finance
 A survey of 1,500 UK adults carried out in March 2025 revealed that an alarming 73% are worried about affording their basic expenses this spring. Additionally, one in four respondents (26%) reported feeling so overwhelmed by prospective cost increases that they avoid checking their account statements altogether.


 Fiona Peake, the consumer money specialist from
 Ocean Finance
 , has pointed out key dates in April concerning DWP, HMRC, and state pensions that might impact your financial situation.

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 Key April dates for DWP, HMRC, and state pensions
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 On April 1st, the National Living Wage is set to experience a substantial hike, as stated by Fiona: “A considerable number of employees will benefit from an increased salary starting this April due to the National Living Wage going up by 77 pence to reach £12.21 per hour for individuals who are 21 years old and above. Workers within the age group of 18 to 20 can expect a jump of £1.40, taking their rate to £10 per hour. Apprentices too will receive a raise of £1.15, setting their hourly wage at £7.55. Although such increments are positive news, they might be overshadowed by the continuous escalation in living expenses—particularly energy charges and municipal taxes.”

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 On April 1, families throughout the nation will also be preparing for an increase in Council Tax.


 Fiona cautioned, “On average, council tax bills are set to increase by nearly 5%. However, the precise hike depends on both your local authority and the specific property banding. Should you have concerns regarding your bill, use the government’s online service to verify your property banding and ensure accuracy in billing. Additionally, explore potential discounts or exemptions.”


 By April 1, water charges are scheduled to increase sharply.


 Fiona warned, “The water charges are set to increase by £27.40, making the typical yearly expense amount to £473. It’s advisable to verify whether installing a water meter might be more economical for you. Numerous water suppliers provide complimentary water-efficient gadgets; thus, take some time to explore what options they have that can assist in cutting down your water consumption and possibly decreasing your expenses.”


 The price for viewing TV will also increase starting April 1st.


 Fiona suggested: "Starting April 1st, the cost of your TV license will go up by £5 to £174.50. However, specific categories might be entitled to reductions. Individuals above 75 years old and claiming pension credit can obtain a complimentary TV license, whereas people with visual impairments can receive a 50% discount. Taking advantage of these TV licensing discounts could significantly lower expenses if you meet the criteria—don’t forget to apply for all applicable rebates."


 Drivers will also face tighter finances when vehicle taxes increase on April 1st.


 Fiona pointed out: "The road tax will go up by around £30 annually on average, even for those who own electric vehicles, as they too will see an increase in fees. It’s advisable to find out exactly how much extra you’ll have to fork out based on what kind of car you drive."


 The tax year concludes on April 5, as pointed out by Fiona regarding a crucial date for British financial matters. She explained, "April 5 signifies the last opportunity to utilize your ISA allowance. Regardless of whether you possess an individual or junior ISA, this presents a prime chance to enhance your savings without taxation ahead of the deadline."


 She subsequently warned of the approaching deadline forState Pension enhancements: “Should you lack some National Insurance contribution records, you may purchase additional years to increase yourstate pension. However, act quickly—the window closesafterApril 5th; post that date,you willonlybeabletotopupcontributionsforthe precedingsixyears.”


 Concerning alterations to tax credits, Fiona cautioned: “On April 5th, the current tax credit scheme will conclude, requiring those affected to transition to Universal Credit instead. Individuals failing to make this changeover will cease to receive their financial assistance. Ensure you reply to the notification sent out by the Department for Work and Pensions regarding your move. Should you have questions about how to proceed or require additional help, reach out to them directly.”


 Regarding companies, she highlighted an impending rise in expenses: "Starting April 6th, business owners will encounter higher National Insurance contributions, increasing from 13.8% to 15%. Additionally, the threshold for these payments will decrease, potentially impacting both enterprises and their staff members."


 Finally, Fiona had some uplifting information for senior residents: "There’s good news for retirees as state pensions will go up by 4.1% starting from 6 April, providing an additional £472 per year. This boost is part of the government's triple lock commitment, ensuring that pensions increase according to inflation rates, average earnings, or at least 2.5%, depending on which figure is greatest."


 On April 6th, the Help to Save Scheme will be broadened, just as Fiona detailed: “Starting from April 6th, the Help to Save programme will extend eligibility to encompass all working individuals receiving Universal Credit. The initiative enables participants to save money alongside earning an additional 50 pence for each pound saved, potentially offering a valuable opportunity for people with lower earnings to establish some financial security.”


 On April 7, the benefits system will receive an uplift, according to Fiona’s statement: “Benefit rates along with Universal Credit payments will go up by 1.7% starting from April 7. This enhancement will be seamlessly integrated into your payments, offering additional assistance to those facing the greatest challenges.”

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DIWIDA.NEWS economics, fiscal policy, money, personal finance saving spending, taxes

In April, financial matters take centre stage as the start of the new tax year arrives, bringing about higher bills alongside improved benefits provided by the Department for Work and Pensions. A n…