Key money dates for September 2026

So, the summer holidays are nearly over. The kids are getting ready to head back to school, and the evenings are starting to get a little darker.

Whether you're looking forward to September or not, there are some important money dates and changes that could affect your finances this month.

September: school uniform rules change

If you've got children at school, there's good news.

From September 2026, most schools in England can only require up to three branded uniform items per child. Secondary and middle schools can require four if one of those items is a tie.

The change is designed to give you more freedom to shop around and pick up cheaper alternatives from supermarkets and other retailers, rather than having to buy from expensive approved suppliers.

If school uniform costs are putting pressure on your budget, speak to your child's school.

You may be able to get help through:

• second-hand uniform sales
• hardship funds
• advice on lower-cost alternatives

Check if you can get a school uniform grant

Many local councils offer help towards school uniform costs if you're on a low income. The rules vary depending on where you live, but you may qualify if you receive benefits such as universal credit.

Check your local council's website to see what support is available.

You may also be able to get help from charities, including:

• The Salvation Army
• Family Fund
• Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust

1 September: free school meals eligibility expands

From 1 September, all families in England receiving universal credit will be eligible for free school meals, regardless of income.

Previously, eligibility was limited to families earning less than £7,400 a year.

The government says the change could help lift around 100,000 children out of poverty.

If you're not sure whether your child qualifies, contact your local council or check through your local authority's website.

It's also worth checking whether you're missing out on any other financial support.

You could be entitled to benefits or grants that you're not currently claiming, so it's always worth finding out what's available to you.

Get in touch to see what benefits you could be entitled to or try out our benefits calculator. 

15 September: Pension Awareness Day

Have you checked your pension recently?

Pension Awareness Day is all about helping you understand your retirement savings and make informed decisions about your future.

Throughout the day, experts will host webinars and live sessions covering topics such as:

• workplace pensions
• the state pension
• tracking down old pension pots
• combining pensions
• retirement planning

You'll also find calculators, guides and practical tools to help you understand what your retirement income could look like.

Even spending 10 minutes checking your pension could make a big difference to your future finances.

16 September: parliament enters conference recess

On 16 September, parliament breaks for party conference season and won't return until 12 October.

While MPs won't be debating in the House of Commons, September is often packed with political announcements that can give you clues about future government plans and spending priorities.

17 September: Bank of England interest rate decision

The Bank of England will announce its latest decision on interest rates on 17 September.

If you've got a mortgage, savings account or any borrowing, it's worth paying attention.

Interest rate changes can affect:

• mortgage repayments
• savings rates
• loan costs
• credit card interest

Depending on the outcome, you may want to review your savings or borrowing arrangements.

27 to 30 September: Labour Party Conference

Labour's annual conference takes place in Liverpool between 27 and 30 September.

Major speeches and policy announcements could offer a clearer picture of the government's priorities ahead of the Autumn Budget.

While conference announcements don't automatically become policy, they can provide useful insight into the issues the government is focusing on.

Benefit payment dates in September

For most people, benefit payments will arrive as normal throughout September because there are no bank holidays to disrupt payment schedules.

State pension payment dates

Your state pension is usually paid every four weeks, and the day you receive it depends on the last two digits of your National Insurance number.

You'll be paid on:

• 00 to 19 - Monday
• 20 to 39 - Tuesday
• 40 to 59 - Wednesday
• 60 to 79 - Thursday
• 80 to 99 - Friday

Get on top of your budget this September

September can be an expensive month. Back-to-school costs, household bills and the run-up to winter can all put pressure on your finances.

That's why it's a good time to check exactly how much money is coming in, where it's going and whether there are any areas where you could save.

A simple budget can help you stay in control, avoid unnecessary borrowing and make your money go further.

The more you know about your finances, the easier it is to make confident decisions about your money.

Check our guide to creating a budget to find out more.