As millions of UK pensioners navigate the cost of living challenges this winter, a comprehensive package of benefits and discounts worth thousands of pounds is available alongside the state pension.
Those who have reached state pension age – currently 66 – can access an extensive range of financial support this December.
Christmas Bonus £10
The Christmas Bonus is a one-off tax free payment made before Christmas to people claiming certain benefits in the first full week of December. The qualifying benefits include state pension, Pension Credit, Pension Age Disability Payment, Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), among others.
Pension Credit £3,900
Many of these valuable entitlements are linked to Pension Credit, a crucial benefit worth around £3,900 annually that serves as a gateway to additional support.
However, Government figures show approximately 880,000 eligible pensioners are yet to claim this vital benefit, potentially missing out on thousands of pounds worth of additional assistance.
It tops up weekly income to £218.15 for single pensioners and £332.95 for couples, with additional amounts available for carers and those with disabilities.
For those who reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016, the Savings Credit element could provide up to £17.01 weekly for singles or £19.04 for couples.
Pension Credit can be claimed by phone, online or by post ALAMYWinter Fuel Payment up to £300
Claiming Pension Credit is particularly crucial this winter, as it unlocks access to the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300 off energy bills. The deadline for Pension Credit applications to qualify for this year’s Winter Fuel Payment is December 21.
Free TV licence – worth up to £169.50
TV licenses used to be universally free for anyone over age 75, but now they are means tested. To qualify, Britons need to get Pension Credit or live with a partner who gets Pension Credit. A colour license costs £169.50 a year, while a black and white licence costs just £57.Social tariffs – up to £142.92 a year
NHS prescriptions: £114.50
Healthcare benefits form a substantial part of pensioner support, with free NHS prescriptions available from age 60, saving up to £114.50 annually.
NHS Dental care – from £26.80
Those receiving the Guarantee Element of Pension Credit can access completely free NHS dental treatment across all three payment bands, from basic check-ups at £26.80 to complex procedures costing £319.10. According to Martin Lewis’ MSE this could amount to up to £1,000 worth of free treatment per year.
Free eye test and glasses from £20
Eye care support includes free tests every two years for over-60s, with additional benefits for Pension Credit recipients. Qualifying pensioners can receive vouchers worth up to £215 for glasses or contact lenses, depending on their prescription. The standard eye test cost ranges between £20-25, with potential additional charges for specialized tests.
These healthcare entitlements can provide significant savings, particularly for those requiring regular medical attention or multiple prescriptions throughout the year.
Attendance Allowance up to £434 a month
For those with severe disabilities, Attendance Allowance offers additional support worth up to £108.55 weekly for those needing regular assistance. Those with severe disabilities that require regular assistance day and night could claim the higher amount. There are a total of 56 categories of conditions which could make someone eligible.
Council tax discounts up to £2,171
Housing support offers substantial financial relief for pensioners, with potential council tax reductions worth up to £2,171 annually for a band D property.
Those receiving the Guarantee part of Pension Credit could be eligible for a complete council tax exemption. Even pensioners with low income and savings under £16,000 may qualify for partial support through their local council.
Travel discounts on bus
Free bus travel across the UK is available to those who have reached state pension age, offering significant savings for regular users.
In London, residents aged 60 and over enjoy free travel on buses, tubes and other transport within the capital through TfL. Welsh residents can also access free bus passes from age 60.
The Senior Railcard £96
This provides additional travel savings for those aged 60 and over, offering one-third off train fares throughout Great Britain. Rail users save an average of £96 annually with the card, which costs £30 for one year or £70 for three years.
Most cardholders recover the cost within just three journeys, according to railcard providers.
Warm Home Discount £150
This is a one-off £150 reduction directly on electricity bills for Pension Credit recipients. Eligible pensioners should receive automatic confirmation by early January 2025, with responses to any information requests required by February 28.
Cold Weather Payments from £25
This offers a £25 for each seven-day period when local temperatures drop below zero degrees Celsius. This is automatic for those on an eligible benefit such as Pension Credit, Income Support or Universal Credit. Last year saw 31 trigger weeks nationwide, with some areas receiving multiple payments up to £75
Social broadband tariffs 142.92
This can reduce internet costs significantly, with prices starting from £14.99 monthly compared to the UK average of £26.90.
Providers like Vodafone, BT, and Sky offer special rates for Pension Credit recipients, potentially saving £142.92 annually.