What could you be entitled to in retirement?

Did you know that when you reach State Pension age you no longer pay National Insurance contributions - even if you're still working? Many people don't know this, and along with any State Pension you may get, there might be other financial benefits as you get older too.

That's money you could be entitled to. In addition, you could save on travel, health costs, and things like days out and going to the cinema. 

Sound good? Get clued up so you don’t miss out.

Benefits available from the UK government

Pension Credit

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Visit the gov.uk website for more information and how to apply.

Housing Benefit

You could get help to pay your rent if you are on a low income. Visit the gov.uk website for further information.

Council Tax reduction

If you're on a low income and your savings are below a certain amount you might be able to get a reduction on your Council Tax. This could be as much as 100% so if you think you might qualify, visit the gov.uk website.

Winter Fuel Payment

If you were born on or before 25 September 1956 you could get between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills. For more information on your eligibility and how to apply, visit the gov.uk website.

Attendance Allowance

If you're aged state pension age or over you could claim Attendance Allowance. This is to help with your care if you have an illness or disability. You can find out more on the gov.uk website.

Cold Weather Payment

If you're getting certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, you may be eligible to claim the Cold Weather Payment. This is to help you during periods of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March. Visit the gov.uk website for more information.

Personal Independence Payment

You may be able to get help with some of the extra costs caused by long term ill-health or disability. If you think you might qualify, visit the gov.uk website.

Carer's Allowance

If you care for someone for 35 hours or more per week, then you could be entitled to Carer's Allowance. Find out more on the gov.uk website.

Savings on health and travel costs

We've listed the main ways that you could save on health and travel costs. It's a good idea to find out what else is available in your local area too as benefits can vary depending on where you live.

Free prescriptions and eye tests

If you're over 60 years of age then you qualify for free prescriptions and eye tests from the NHS.

Pension Credit Guarantee Credit

If you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit then you qualify for free prescriptions and eye tests, as well as free NHS dental treatment.

Free bus pass

If you live in England, once you reach the State Pension age, you could travel for free on local buses. In Scotland and Wales, you qualify for the free bus pass at age 60. To find out more, visit the gov.uk website.

Senior railcard

For £30 a year (as at August 2023), anyone aged 60 or over can save 1/3 on Standard and First Class rail fares throughout Britain for a year with a Senior Railcard. For more information and to apply, please visit the National Rail website.

Other ways to save

Many museums, cinemas and attractions offer discounted prices for the over 60s, so whether you fancy a trip on the London Eye or watching the latest blockbuster – make sure you look out for concession prices!

More information