Turning 60 can unlock a number of perks, from free prescriptions and eye tests to cheaper travel, while further help becomes available once you reach State Pension age. With household bills remaining expensive, it is worth checking exactly what you can claim rather than assuming support will be given automatically.
However, reaching 60 does not mean you immediately qualify for every perk. Some are only available at State Pension age or from 75, while others depend on your income or whether you receive benefits such as Pension Credit. The rules can also vary considerably depending on where you live in the UK. Someone aged 60 in England, for example, will normally have to wait until State Pension age for their older person's bus pass, while people in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland can qualify from 60.
Free prescriptions and eye tests
People aged 60 and over in England can get free NHS prescriptions, potentially saving money for anyone who regularly needs medication. A standard prescription currently costs £9.90 per item.
Over-60s in England are also entitled to free NHS sight tests, normally every two years, or more frequently if clinically necessary.
Free bus travel
In England, people generally become eligible for an older person's bus pass when they reach State Pension age. The rules are different in London, where residents aged 60 and over can apply for a 60+ London Oyster photocard for free travel on Transport for London services, subject to its conditions. People can qualify for an older person's bus pass from 60 in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Pension Credit and dental treatment
Pension Credit provides extra money to people over State Pension age who are on a low income. Guarantee Credit currently tops weekly income up to £238 for a single person or £363.25 for a couple, although entitlement depends on individual circumstances. People receiving the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit can also qualify for help with NHS costs, including free dental treatment.
Free TV Licence and other help
People aged 75 and over can get a free TV Licence if they or their partner living at the same address receives Pension Credit. The rules were tightened in August 2020. Before then, everyone aged 75 and over was entitled to a free TV Licence, but the concession is now restricted to those receiving Pension Credit. Those who are 75 or older but do not receive Pension Credit normally have to pay for a licence if they need one. A standard colour TV Licence currently costs £180 a year.
People who have reached State Pension age and need help or supervision because of a disability or health condition may be able to claim Attendance Allowance. The benefit currently pays £76.70 or £114.60 a week, depending on whether someone needs help or supervision during the day or night, or both.
Older households could also qualify for help with their energy costs. Eligible pensioners in England and Wales can receive between £100 and £300 through the Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2026-27, although those with total income above £35,000 will have the payment recovered by HMRC. Different arrangements apply in Scotland. The Warm Home Discount also provides eligible households in England, Wales and Scotland with £150 off their electricity bill, although the eligibility rules vary.
Pensioners on a low income may also be eligible for Council Tax Reduction. The amount available depends on where you live, your income and your circumstances, with some eligible households potentially receiving a reduction of up to 100%.
