If you use HyperJar already, you’ll know that you can create jars for different things that you want and need. We’ve previously done blog posts to make budgeting easier such as the 50: 30:20 budgeting rule and the 1p savings challenge. But this year, there are other things you need to know that could affect your spending - especially if you plan to move house or you travel frequently by train.
We’ve looked at 10 personal finance watch-out events this year so you’re prepared.
What key events in 2025 could affect smart spending?
1st of January 2025 - new energy price cap
The new energy price cap came into effect on New Year’s Day. Ofgem, the energy regulator, sets a new price cap every three months, which applies to households on variable bills. If you're on a fixed energy tariff, you're not affected. The price cap rose by 1.2% for January to March, taking the average annual household bill to £1,738. This is £21 a year more than the current price cap, or £1.75 a month. You can easily exceed this amount by taking advantage of cashback deals on apps like HyperJar on everything from coffees to supermarket shopping and holidays.
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1st of February 2025 : Alcohol Duty Freeze Ends
As Dry January wraps up, there’s another reason to consider reducing your alcohol intake — prices will increase starting in February 2025. Alcohol duty rates for non-draught products will rise in line with the Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation. The updated rates will follow a sliding scale based on alcohol content, with draught beer benefiting from a one-pence lower duty.
2nd of March 2025: Rail Fare Increases
Train fare hikes are on hold for January and February but will arrive on time in March. The increases are usually tied to the RPI from the previous July. For 2025, regulated train fares will rise by 4.6%, one percentage point above last July’s RPI, as confirmed by the Treasury.
26th of March 2025 : Spring Economic Update
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pledged to deliver only one Budget annually, but the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) will release an Economic and Fiscal Forecast in late March.
This report will come with a statement to Parliament from the Chancellor, although it’s unclear if any immediate changes will accompany it.
31st of March 2025: Stamp Duty Changes
Stamp duty thresholds, raised in the 2022 mini-Budget to reduce moving costs, are set to revert to their previous levels. Labour has decided not to extend the changes, meaning some first-time buyers could face an additional tax charge of up to £11,000. If you’re planning to buy in 2025, you’ll need to factor in a substantial amount if your property falls within the threshold.
5th of April 2025 : Deadline for State Pension Contributions
The chance to address gaps in your National Insurance record dating back to 2006 ends on 5 April 2025. After this date, you’ll only be able to cover shortfalls from the past six years.
Filling these gaps could enhance your state pension entitlement and make a big difference to how much you receive from the state in your retirement.
6th of April 2025: New Tax Year Begins
The 2025-26 tax year starts today, allowing you to file your 2024-25 tax return if you have all the necessary documents. Additionally, your ISA allowance refreshes, enabling a new year of contributions of up to £20,000.
22nd of October 2025 : September Inflation Figures
These inflation statistics are critical, as they will determine the extent to which benefits and the state pension increase in April 2026.
31st of October: Deadline for Paper Tax Returns
If you’re submitting your 2024-25 tax return by mail, ensure HMRC receives it by this date. Missing the deadline could result in a late penalty, even if you later file online.
Online submissions are accepted until January 31, 2026, for payment of taxes owed.
2025 Bank of England Rate Announcements
The Bank of England’s Bank Rate, which influences interest rates for loans and savings, saw its first cut in three years in the summer of 2024. The Monetary Policy Committee meets eight times annually to review and adjust the rate. In 2025, reviews are scheduled for:
- February 6
- March 20
- May 8
- June 19
- August 7
- September 18
- November 6
- December 18
How HyperJar can help you navigate 2025
The best way to take control of your spending is to see how much you’ve got, where it needs to go - and then make sure you’re using any available rewards and cashback to make it stretch as far as possible. That way, you’ll feel in control of what you’ve got and spend less on everything you buy.
To see all HyperJar’s latest cashback, rewards and discounts, head to the Cashback and Shops tabs in the app.
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50:30:20 budgeting rule
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