Retirement benefits

There are a variety of discounts and concessions available to older people. We’ve highlighted some of the more commonly used benefits below.

Health benefits

These include:

• Free prescriptions (once you turn 60)
• Free eye tests (once you turn 60)
• A voucher towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses (if you get Guarantee Credit)
• Help with travel costs to receive NHS treatment (if you get Guarantee Credit)
• Help with costs for NHS wigs and fabric supports (if you get Guarantee Credit)

Guarantee Credit is one of the two parts that make up the income-related benefit, Pension Credit. The other is Savings Credit. You can find out more about Pension Credit here.

To find out more about any of these benefits visit gov.uk

Transport Benefits

Bus pass

If you live in England you can get a bus pass for free travel when you reach the State Pension age.

If you live in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland you can get a bus pass when you’re 60.

To discover the ins and outs of exactly when and where you can travel for free, and to apply for an older person’s bus pass go to gov.uk.

Railcard

Senior Railcards are available to anyone aged 60 or above. There’s a cost attached to buying the railcard, but you’ll be entitled to 1/3rd off most standard and first class rail travel fares. Senior Railcard holders are also entitled to money off other products and services including hotels, restaurants, theatre trips and entertainment.

Other benefits

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual Government initiative that helps older people cope with their increasing heating costs. What you get (between £250 and £600) depends on your living circumstances and your age but you'll usually get a Winter Fuel Payment automatically if you receive a State Pension. 

To find out more about Winter Fuel Payment, click here.

*Figures relate to the tax year 2024/2025 (April 6th 2024  - April 5th 2025).

TV licence concessions

If you’re 75 or over and you claim Pension Credit, you’re entitled to a free licence. You need to apply for a free licence – they’re not given out automatically. You can contact TV licensing for an application form.

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. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.

For further information visit gov.uk