A number of benefits can be claimed if you’re over state pension age (Image: Getty Images)
State Pensioners across Great Britain have access to a range of exclusive benefits and payments that could significantly enhance their income. The serves as the primary income source for many retirees, with 4.1 million individuals receiving up to £884.80 every four weeks under the New scheme.
Meanwhile, the Basic provides up to £678 per pay period to some 8.8 million retirees. Those approaching retirement age should be aware of the various benefits they can claim from the , including Council Tax discounts, heating cost assistance, and more.
Moreover, existing recipients may not realise there are over a dozen ways to potentially boost their current income in the coming months. For instance, Pension Credit, which averages £4,200 annually, takes about 50 working days to process, meaning successful applicants could receive their first payments before March ends, according to the
An online benefits calculator is the simplest way to check eligibility for any benefit, discount, or reduction. If you know an elderly person who isn’t internet-savvy, consider helping them to ensure they don’t miss out on additional financial support in 2025.
Benefits available to people over State Pension age
Benefits for those over the age include:
- Pension Credit
- Health benefits – , Pension Age Disability Payment
- Help with heating costs – eligibility for some may require a relevant qualifying means-tested benefit
- Travel and TV benefits
- Help with Council Tax
- Benefits for war widows and widowers
The , which provides a regular taxable income for life once claimed after reaching the age, is not means-tested. However, the amount received depends on the number of qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions or credits accumulated.
A minimum of 10 years is required for any payment, and around 35 for the maximum amount – this may be higher for those who were ‘contracted out’.
Pension Credit
Pension Credit benefits 1.4 million people across the UK by providing additional funds to help with living costs for those over the age and on a low income. It acts as a ‘passport’ benefit, offering on average around £4,200 each year in financial support and serving as a ‘gateway’ to Council Tax discounts, housing cost assistance, NHS discounts, and free TV Licences for those over 75.
The Pension Credit Calculator on can help ensure you or a family member are receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to. For further help, the Pension Credit helpline can be reached at 0800 99 1234.
Other benefits include , Pension Age Disability Payment, help with heating costs (eligibility for some may require a relevant qualifying means-tested benefit), travel and TV benefits, help with Council Tax, and benefits for war widows and widowers.
Council Tax
Council Tax support is accessible whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant. You might be eligible for assistance from your local council to cover your Council Tax.
Disability and care benefits
For those with disabilities, long-term health conditions or specific care needs, there are a number of benefits available:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – you will need to have been already claiming this before you reached age
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – if you’re under age, if you reached age while claiming PIP this will continue
- – if you’re over age and have not claimed DLA or PIP
Free passport
If you were born on or before 2 September 1929, and are a British national, you may be eligible for a free passport. More information and how to apply can be found on the