Across the UK, approximately 13 million people have now reached State Pension age. This contributory benefit is a vital income source for many retirees, with up to £921 provided every four weeks to the 4.1 million individuals receiving the New State Pension.
Meanwhile, around 8.8 million pensioners are receiving up to £705.80 each pay period through the Basic State Pension. For those approaching retirement age, it’s crucial to be aware of certain benefits available from the DWP, as well as Council Tax discounts, heating cost assistance and more.
Similarly, those already receiving State Pension payments may not be aware that there are over a dozen ways they could potentially boost their current income in the upcoming months.
Pension Credit, worth an average of £4,300 annually, typically takes about 50 working days to process. This means successful applicants could receive their first payments before the end of June.
To help understand and claim these benefits, discounts or reductions, the MoneyHelper website has compiled a comprehensive list, complete with quick eligibility checks to ensure older individuals are accessing essential support in later life, according to the Daily Record.
If you’re aware of an elderly relative or friend who doesn’t have internet access or isn’t tech-savvy, assist them to ensure they don’t miss out on additional financial support in 2025.
Benefits for people over State Pension age
Retirement comes with a variety of benefits and discounts, including:.
- Health benefits – Attendance Allowance, Pension Age Disability Payment
- Travel and TV benefits
- Benefits for war widows and widowers
- Pension Credit
- State Pension
- Help with Council Tax
- Help with heating costs – eligibility for some may require a relevant qualifying means-tested benefit
State Pension
The State Pension offers a regular taxable income for life once you reach State Pension age and claim it. Some people choose to defer this while they continue to work.
It’s not means-tested, but the amount you receive depends on how many qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions or credits you’ve accumulated. You need at least 10 years’ worth for any State Pension payment and around 35 for the maximum amount – this may be more for people who were ‘contracted out’.
Pension Credit
At present, Pension Credit is aiding 1.4 million individuals across the UK, including over 125,000 in Scotland. It provides additional funds to those over State Pension age and on a low income, helping with living expenses.
This year, it’s offering an average of around £4,300 in financial support and acts as a ‘passport’ benefit, leading to Council Tax reductions, help with housing costs, NHS discounts, and free TV Licences for those aged 75 and above.
You can use the Pension Credit Calculator on GOV.UK to ensure you or a relative are receiving all the financial assistance you’re entitled to. Alternatively, contact the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.
Council Tax Assistance
Whether you own your home or rent, your local authority may be able to offer support towards your Council Tax payments. Contact your local council to inquire about Council Tax assistance.
Insulation and Heating Programmes
There are several programmes available that provide insulation and heating upgrades to improve your home’s energy efficiency. If your property is poorly insulated or doesn’t have a functioning central heating system, and if you’re receiving any income-related benefits including Pension Credit, you could be eligible.
Disability and Care Benefits
A range of benefits are available for individuals with disabilities, chronic health conditions, or specific care needs.
These benefits include:
Attendance Allowance – this is for those over State Pension age who have not claimed DLA or PIP. We have dedicated sections on the Daily Record website for each of these benefits.
Free Passport
If you were born on or before September 2, 1929, and are a British national, you could be eligible for a free passport. More information and application details can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
Free/discounted TV Licence
TV licences are no longer free unless you’re receiving Pension Credit. However, individuals over State Pension age who are registered as severely sight-impaired or blind may qualify for a half-price TV licence.
Benefits for war widows and widowers
If your spouse or civil partner has died, been injured or fallen ill due to their service in Her Majesty’s (HM) Armed Forces, or during a time of war prior to April 6, 2005, you could be entitled to a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension.
For those whose partners died or suffered an injury or illness as a result of serving in a conflict post-April 6, 2005, compensation may be available through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme.
Should you need medical treatment as a result of a disability sustained during your service in the Armed Forces, you could be eligible for help with your medical expenses for your accepted disability.
For those who suffered injuries or became disabled while serving in the Armed Forces before April 6, 2005, additional support towards your pension is available.
