Key money dates for November 2026

November can be an expensive month, with colder weather, higher heating bills and Christmas shopping just around the corner.

But knowing what’s happening with your money can help you stay organised, make the most of any support you’re entitled to and avoid spending more than you need to.

Here are the key money dates you need to know about in November 2026.

5 November: Bank of England interest rate decision

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is due to announce its latest interest rate decision on 5 November.

If you have a mortgage, savings account or loan, changes to interest rates could affect how much you pay or earn. The impact will depend on the type of deal or account you have.

7 November: tax deadlines

VAT returns and payments are due for some businesses, alongside quarterly updates under Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.

If you’re self-employed or run a business, check your deadlines carefully so you know what you need to submit and when.

27 November: Black Friday

Black Friday falls on Friday, 27 November this year, bringing a wave of discounts and special offers in the run-up to Christmas.

It can be a good opportunity to save money on things you genuinely need, but don’t let big discounts tempt you into spending more than you planned.

Before you buy, ask yourself:

• Do you really need the item?
• Is it actually cheaper than it was before the sale?
• Can you afford it without borrowing or dipping into money needed for bills?

A discount only saves you money if you were going to buy the item anyway.

Check out our tips on how to make the most of Black Friday deals while avoiding buyer’s remorse.

Benefit payment dates in November

There are no bank holidays in England and Wales in November 2026, so benefit payments should follow their usual schedules.

If you’re expecting a payment, check your usual payment date and make sure your bank details are up to date.

If your money doesn’t arrive when you expect it to, check your benefit account or contact the relevant government department.

You can find more information about when and how benefits are paid on the GOV.UK benefits pages.

State pension payment dates in November

If you receive the state pension, your payment will usually arrive every four weeks, paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account.

The day you’re normally paid depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance number:

Your payment date may vary in certain circumstances, so check your usual arrangements if you’re unsure when your money is due.

Winter fuel payment: could you get help with heating costs?

As the weather gets colder, heating bills can put extra pressure on your budget. If you’re eligible, the winter fuel payment can help you cover some of these costs.

The payment is worth between £100 and £300, depending on your circumstances. Most eligible people receive it automatically in November or December.

Who can get the winter fuel payment?

For winter 2026–27, you generally need to have been born on or before 27 June 1960 and meet the relevant eligibility rules, including the rules around receiving certain benefits and your circumstances.

If you qualify, you’ll usually receive a letter explaining how much you’ll get and which bank account the money will go into. This is normally the same account used for your state pension or other benefits.

If you haven’t received a letter or your payment hasn’t arrived by 27 January 2027, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

You can check the latest eligibility rules and payment information on GOV.UK.

Warm home discount: save £150 on your energy bill

The warm home discount could help you reduce your energy costs this winter with a one-off £150 discount on your electricity bill.

If you qualify, the discount is usually applied automatically, so you won’t need to make a claim. But some households may need to provide extra information to confirm their eligibility. If this applies to you, you should receive instructions on what to do.

The discount is paid between October 2026 and March 31, 2027.

Who can get the warm home discount?

You’re eligible for a £150 one-off discount if you’re named on the bill and receive one of the following means-tested benefits:

• universal credit
• pension credit (guarantee credit and savings credit)
• income support
• housing benefit
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) 

But you won’t get the payment automatically unless you’re named.

Make November work for your money

With tax deadlines, regular benefit payments and winter energy support to keep track of, November is a good time to check your finances before Christmas spending ramps up.

By keeping an eye on your money and checking what support is available to you, you can head into winter feeling more prepared and in control.