Once you reach the State Pension age, a variety of benefits and payments become available. Approximately 8.8 million retirees receive up to £678 every pay period through the Basic State Pension.
It’s vital for those approaching retirement age to be aware of certain benefits they can claim from the DWP, including Council Tax discounts, assistance with heating costs, and more. Similarly, those already receiving State Pension payments may not be aware of over a dozen ways they could potentially boost their current income in the coming months.
Pension Credit is now worth an average of £4,200 annually and typically takes around 50 working days to process, as reported by the Daily Record. This means successful applicants could see their first payments arrive before the end of March.
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If you know an older relative or friend who isn’t internet-savvy, lend them a hand to ensure they don’t miss out on additional financial support in 2025.
Benefits for those over the State Pension
Benefits for those over the State Pension age include:
State Pension
The State Pension, which provides 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.
The State Pension isn’t means-tested, but the amount received is dependent on the number of qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions or credits that have been accumulated. A minimum of 10 years’ worth is required for any State Pension payment and approximately 35 for the maximum amount – this could be higher for individuals who were ‘contracted out’, reports Plymouth Live.
Pension Credit
Pension Credit currently benefits 1.4 million people across the UK, including over 125,000 in Scotland, by providing additional funds to assist with living costs if they are over State Pension age and on a low income. It serves as a ‘passport’ benefit, offering on average around £4,200 each year in financial support and access to Council Tax discounts, help with housing costs, NHS discounts, and free TV Licences for those aged over 75.
You can use the Pension Credit Calculator on GOV. UK for yourself or a family member to ensure you’re receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to.
You can also contact the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.
Help with Council Tax
Help with Council Tax is available whether you own your home or rent, and you could be eligible for support from your local authority. Reach out to your local council to inquire about assistance with Council Tax.
Insulation and heating schemes
Insulation and heating schemes are available that provide insulation and heating enhancements to make your home more energy efficient. If your home is poorly insulated or doesn’t have a functioning central heating system, and you’re receiving any of a variety of income-related benefits including Pension Credit, you’re likely to be eligible.
Disability and care benefits
Free passport
If you were born on or before 2 September 1929, and are a British national, you may qualify for a free passport. More details and application procedures can be found on the GOV.UK website.
TV Licence discounts
TV Licences, are no longer complimentary unless you receive Pension Credit. Those over State Pension age who are registered as severely sight-impaired or blind might be eligible for a half-price TV Licence.
Benefits are accessible for war widows and widowers
If your spouse or civil partner passed away, was injured, or fell ill due to their service in Her Majesty’s (HM) Armed Forces, or during a time of war prior to 6 April 2005, you could be entitled to a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension.
If they died or suffered an injury or illness due to serving in a conflict after 6 April 2005, you might be entitled to compensation through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. More information about War widows and widowers’ pensions and compensation can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Medical expenses for war pensioners
Medical expenses for war pensioners are also catered for. If you need medical care due to a disability incurred while serving in the Armed Forces, you could receive assistance towards your medical costs for your acknowledged disability.
War Disablement Pension
If you suffered an injury or disability while serving in the Armed Forces before April 6, 2005, you might be eligible for extra pension support. More details about the War Disablement Pension can be found on the GOV.UK website.