Benefits for over 60s

Daniel Meyer/Flickr

Turning 60 needn’t be a watershed to dread – there are loads of exciting benefits for over 60s out there, and we’ve found them.

This article came about when we were asked a question:

With this in mind, we went away and found the very best benefits for over 60s. However, if you’ve found any other fantastic goodies and discounts, or have any more questions, make sure you let us know in the Comments section below!

Free benefits and great discounts for over 60

Free prescriptions and free eye tests.
Save money at Specsavers with a 25% discount when you buy glasses and lenses costing over £69.
Adult education – There are grants and discounts for senior citizens wanting to take adult education classes. Talk to your local council or directly to the university/college offering the course to find out more.

Jasmine says...

Arthritis Research UK has put together a selection of free information packs on understanding arthritis and managaing the pain. If you’ve got arthritis, or care for someone who does then this free pack is perfect for you.

Free bus pass – If you live in England and were born before 5 April 1950 you now get free off-peak travel anywhere in England. Off-peak travel is any time between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday, and all day at weekends. Click here for information about Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you were born after 5 April 1950 you can find out when you’re eligible for your free bus pass right here.
Coach discounts – In England and Wales, if you’re over 60, you can purchase a Senior Coachcard for £10, which will give you a third off all National Express coach fares.
Train discounts – Get a Senior Railcard which costs £28 for one year (or £65 for three years, saving you £19) and gives you a third off all standard and first class rail tickets. Buy one online here, phone 08448 714 036, or pick one up at your local station’s ticket office.
Save even more on trains – Search and book for train tickets on the great website Redspottedhanky.com and you can not only save up to 80%, but you also earn loyalty points. Get one loyalty point per £1 spent and then redeem these points against future train journeys.
Save in London – If you live in the capital, get yourself a Freedom Pass which will allow you to travel for free on buses, tubes, trains and trams in London. Be aware, though, that a change in legislation last year means that if your 60th birthday falls between 6 April 2010 and 5 April 2015, you won’t automatically be eligible for your Freedom Pass when you reach 60. You can find out exactly when you’ll be eligible on the Freedom Pass website.
Free passport – if you were born on or before 2 September 1929 you can get a free passport. If you’ve applied for a passport since 19 May 2004, apply for a refund. See here for more.
Discounts for the over 60s on annual and life memberships from English Heritage and The National Trust.

Free TV licence – If you are over 75 you can get a TV licence for free. If you’re 74 you can get a short term licence that will be valid until the end of the month before your 75th. To apply call 0844 800 6790 and have your current TV licence number and National Insurance number at the ready.
Free insulation – British Gas are offering the over 70s or British Gas customers free loft and cavity insulation for a limited time only. You have to take part in a telephone survey to apply for the offer; simply register an interest on the British Gas website by arranging a call back, and they’ll call you back to complete the survey and see if you qualify for the deal.
Free gas safety checks – The Gas Safe Register is urging over 60s to apply for a free gas safety inspection. To see if you are eligible, visit Gas Safe online or call 0800 408 5500.
DIY and garden savings – Get a B&Q Diamond Card and receive 10% off every Wednesday. Join The Garden Centre Group’s Gardening Club and build up points for 5% of what you spend, plus over 60s get double points on Tuesdays.
Repairs and improvements – Tradesman such as painters, plumbers and electricians may offer senior citizen discounts so don’t forget to check!

Theatre and cinema offers – Discount tickets are often available for over 60s, although they’re not normally advertised so you may need to call your local theatre or cinema and ask.
Swimming and gym reductions – Many local pools offer free swimming for senior citizens at certain times, and you can find free or discounted exercise classes at gyms nationwide.
Cheap hairdressing – Enquire at your nearest salon about any deals they may have, and don’t forget to ask mobile hairdressers.
Eat out for less – Lots of restaurants and cafes do great deals for senior citizens, particularly at lunchtime. It’s just a case of looking out for these, either advertised outside the restaurant or within the menu. We’ve got a whole list of cheap eats vouchers and 2 for 1 meal deals.

Get the financial benefits you’re entitled to

Here’s a rundown of the financial benefits you may be entitled to – simply click on the one you’re interested in to find out more:

State Pension: The basic allowance.
Pension Credit: Benefit that tops up your weekly income.
Council Tax and Housing Benefit: Helping you to pay your Council Tax and rent.
Funeral payments: Help with the cost of a funeral.
Community Care Grant: Extra help with other expenses if you’re already claiming Pension Credit.
Winter Fuel Payment: To help with heating bills in the winter months.
Cold Weather Payment: Additional heating allowance for periods of extreme cold weather.

State PensionYou are entitled to a State Pension when you reach the appropriate age. For years the State Pension age was 65 for men and 60 for women, but this figure is steadily rising. By 2020 the State Pension age will be 66 for both men and women, with plans to raise it even higher in the future. If you’re in any doubt as to when you can start claiming your pension, use Directgov’s simple State Pension Age Calculator.State retirement pensions are based on your National Insurance contributions throughout your working life.

In 2011-2012, the full basic State Pension is £102.15 per week for a single person and £163.35 per week for a couple, but your individual circumstances may affect the amount you get.

If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2010:

Providing you have 25% or more National Insurance contribution qualifying years, you’ll get a weekly basic State Pension between £25.54 and £102.15.
If you have less than 25% of the qualifying years, you won’t receive any basic State Pension.

If you reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2010:

If you can’t claim the full basic State Pension, but have some qualifying years, you will get one thirtieth of the full amount for each qualifying year.

What are National Insurance contribution qualifying years?

From the age of 16, National Insurance contributions you make while working accumulate and count towards your qualifying years.

The number of qualifying years you need for a full basic State Pension depends on your age and sex.

Men born before 6 April 1945 usually need 44 qualifying years.
Women born before 6 April 1950 usually need 39 qualifying years.
Men born on or after 6 April 1945 need 30 qualifying years.
Women born on or after 6 April 1950 need 30 qualifying years.

If you’re over 80 you will receive a pension regardless of your National Insurance contributions. It currently stands at £61.20 per week. You’ll need to apply for this pension in the four months leading up to your 80th birthday.

Pension CreditIf you’re on a low income you may be entitled to Pension Credit.This is made up of two parts:

Guarantee Credit – this is for people over 60. It guarantees an income of at least £137.35 per week if you are single, or £209.70 per week if you have a partner.
Savings Credit – this rewards over 65s who have saved towards their retirement. It pays up to £20.52 per week if you are single or £27.09 per week if you have a partner.

Follow this link for further information about Pension Credit, and use this Pension Credit calculator to see how much you could be entitled to.

Council Tax and Housing Benefit

If you’re claiming Pension Credit or even just the Guarantee Credit part, you won’t have to pay Council Tax. However, you will still need to apply by calling 0800 99 1234.

Even if you don’t receive Guarantee Credit, you’ll have your Council Tax and rent paid if:

You are 65 or over and have a weekly income of less than £131.95 if you are single, or £197.65 between you for couples.
You are aged 60-64 and have a weekly income of less than £114.05 if you are single or £174.05 between you for couples.

If your income is higher than these amounts you may still get some of your Council Tax and rent paid – it’s well worth checking.

You can contact your local council and ask about Housing Benefit and Council Tax reductions or use Directgov’s simple Benefits Adviser Tool.

Council Tax and Housing Benefit can be backdated for up to three months for people over 60, although you’ll need to provide a valid reason for delaying.

Funeral paymentsIf you are receiving one of the above benefits (Pension Credit, Council Tax Benefit, Housing Benefit), you may be entitled to help with funeral costs should your partner die – even if you have savings.Funeral Payment covers necessary burial or cremation fees and up to £700 for any other funeral expenses, such as the funeral director’s fees, the coffin or flowers.You must claim within three months of the funeral, and the Funeral Payment must be repaid from the estate of the deceased. Go to Directgov for more information or download the Funeral Payment claim form.

Community Care Grant

If you’re receiving Pension Credit, and facing exceptional circumstances, you may be eligible for a Community Care Grant. There are no hard and fast rules about the conditions under which a Community Care Grant may be awarded, but they include:

Chronic illness.
Looking after for someone who has just left a care institution.
Structural problems with your home.
Certain travel expenses (attending a funeral, visiting someone who’s ill etc).

You will only get the full grant if you and your partner are over 60 and have less than £1,000 in savings. You’ll also be expected to use your own money to put towards paying for anything you need.

A Community Care Grant does not count as income, won’t affect other benefits you may be receiving and does not need to be paid back.

You can download an application form here or visit your local Jobcentre Plus (find the contact details of your local office here).

Winter Fuel Payment

The UK has a winter fuel allowance for over 60s, which provides help with the cost of heating your home during the cold months.

The winter fuel allowance is a tax-free payment, so it’s really important to claim it. Even better, this money doesn’t have to be spent on heating – you can spent it on whatever you like.

You might not be eligible for the allowance if you’re in a care home, have been in hospital and receiving treatment for over a year, or if you don’t normally live in the UK.

If you were born on or before 5 January 1951, you will get £200.
If you’re 80 or over on or before 25 September 2011, you’ll receive £300.

If you live with a partner who is receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance or Pension Credit, they will need to get the payment for you.

Those over the age of 60 who are in receipt of a State Pension or Pension Credit (the Guarantee Credit element) will be eligible for a £10 Christmas bonus.

For more information look here or call the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline on 08459 15 15 15.

Cold Weather Payment

If you’re eligible for Pension Credit or certain other benefits, you could be entitled to Cold Weather Payments too. These payments are designed to help cover your heating costs when the weather gets extremely cold between 1 November and 31 March.

You’ll receive your Cold Weather Payment entitlement of £25 if your local temperature is recorded or forecast as being on average 0°C or below for seven consecutive days. As payment is automatic you don’t need to worry about making a claim, but if you think you’ve missed out on a payment make sure you contact your local Jobcentre Plus.

REMEMBER! If you’d like any help finding out whether or not you’re owed benefits, make sure you call Age UK for free on 0800 169 6565. Just because you haven’t been able to claim in the past doesn’t mean you won’t be able to now – and you’ve got nothing to lose by asking.

Age UK also offer a fantastic FREE online booklet which will guide you through how to apply for benefits. Make the most out of resources like this as they really can save you a packet. Claim your free booklet right here.

According to the charity Age UK, over £5 billion of means-tested benefits go unclaimed by older people every year. Claiming benefits can seem quite confusing and complex but our guide tells you everything you need to know.

Get more out of your savings

Savings products aimed at the over 60s have grown in recent times, particularly online savings accounts. According to Ofcom, a quarter of all Brits using the internet are over 60, so there’s no reason why all you silver surfers can’t take advantage of any great rates.

Although there are some competitive rates out there for the over 60s, they aren’t necessarily the best products overall, so always shop around and do take into account short-term bonus rates that fall away after a set period (usually six or 12 months).

Don’t forget you can put up to £5,640 into a Mini Cash ISA or £11,280 into a Maxi Shares ISA without paying tax on it.

Right now we’re liking First Direct’s 1st Account. Move your current account to First Direct and they’ll give you £100, plus a £250 interest-free overdraft. Even better, if you’re not satisfied with the 1st Account after six months, they’ll give you another £100 and help you move your money elsewhere. It’s win-win!

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Insurance policies for over 60s

Staysure are a rarity amongst insurance groups in that they specialise in policies for over 50s. Staysure offer a wide range of cover, including home, travel, motor and medical insurance, all tailored for customers aged 50 and over. Their experience means they understand that the needs of over 50s vary from those of younger clients. Although you may still be fit, active and adventurous, perhaps you don’t want to take the same risks you might have in the past.

Staysure make the often tiresome quote process quick and simple with their online quote system. You complete one short form and within seconds they’ll have their best quote for you. If you choose to take out a policy, the purchase process is just as easy, backed up by friendly and efficient customer service. For your reassurance, there’s a 14-day cancellation period and Staysure are regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

For older people with underlying health problems, getting travel insurance can be a long, difficult and expensive process. Staysure offer cover for minor ailments and serious medical conditions, including over 220 pre-existing conditions, at no extra cost.

Your health is something which probably becomes more of an issue as you reach middle age, so it’s worth considering Staysure’s over 50s health insurance for less than £10 per month.

Get cheaper home insurance

If you’re 60 or over, you can often benefit from cheaper home insurance. Many companies offer special discounts to this market, as they recognise that older people generally make fewer and smaller claims, and therefore offer cheaper policies (especially if you live in a low-crime area).

Some insurance providers also offer higher buildings and contents cover and/or new for old replacement on damaged or stolen items.

It’s worth using a general comparison tool like Confused.com to get a broad sweep of the market. However, comparison sites don’t always pick up the best specialist deals that are available to those aged 60 or over. Therefore, we recommend that you check out:

Castle Insurance – Castle Insurance specialises in providing cover for over 50s customers. A recent report by ConsumerIntelligence revealed that 10% of customers aged 50 or over could save over £150 on their home insurance with Castle. Their service has won several customer satisfaction awards and you can get a quote in under a minute, so why not give it a go?

50% off combined insurance with Churchill – If you haven’t claimed in the last five years, Churchill will give you a massive 50% off buildings and contents insurance. Plus, all new customers get at least 20% discount when buying online.

Equity release schemes

Equity release schemes are only available to those over the age of 60. Equity is the value of property in excess of any charges on it. So, for example, if your house is worth £100,000 and you have a mortgage on it of £70,000 and no other secured loans, you have £30,000 equity. Equity release is a way of getting cash from the property without selling it.

This can be a useful way of getting hold of some money, especially if you’ve got a lot of money in land and assets, but are cash poor. On the other hand, once you’ve died or moved into care, the loan (and the interest) will have to be paid off by your children. Most independent watchdogs and advisors would say that this is only something to be entered into as a last resort.

Be wary, though, as we’ve heard some shocking stories of a lot of older people being swindled. Quite a bit has been done recently to regulate these schemes with the help of the Financial Services Authority (FSA).

For more information and advice, take a look at our full article on equity release schemes.

Best travel insurance for over 65s

We get asked a lot about travel insurance for over 60s, so we’re always on the lookout for great offers. However Staysure aside, seniors’ deals tend to be aimed at 65s and above. Undeterred, we’ve put together a couple of pointers about how you can get cheap travel insurance at 65 plus.

Flexicover provides reasonable cover for those aged 65 and over – you’d be looking at around £90 for annual multi-trip cover in Europe, for example. Insure For Travel has some affordable policies for those in their early 70s – expect to pay around £60 for annual multi-trip cover in Europe.

Finding it hard to get insured?

If you find it hard to get insurance (perhaps because of your age or a medical condition) make sure you try AllClear. We were impressed by the cover they offered to pensioners (who often struggle to get adequate travel insurance cover) and the fact that the cost of their premiums are calculated much more fairly than most other insurers (so a 65 year old will pay less than a 70 year old, for example).

Visit the AllClear website to find out more and get a quote.

We were also impressed by Goodtogoinsurance as they specialise in travel insurance for over 65s. In fact, they can provide cover to travellers of any age, whether they are over 65, 70 or even 90. Their website is very informative and easy to use, so make sure you check them out.

You can use our travel insurance comparison tool to compare the latest quotes from companies across the market.

For more information, we’ve got a whole article dedicated to cheaper travel insurance for over 65s – it’s got everything you need to know, so take a look.

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Directgov
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61 Responses to “Benefits for over 60s”

Robert Moxon says:

October 11, 2011 at 6:11 pm

Iam 70 years old and i am still working.I left school at 15 and i have worked all my life.These so called benefits that senior citizens are entitled to are a myth.The only people who qualify are the sick,lame and LAZY.If you have never worked you get the lot,if like me you are a worker you get nothing.It is one big joke about unclaimed benefits as they are means tested.
DENISE WOOD says:

July 25, 2011 at 8:59 pm

Hi
I was 60 in may.Will I be able to claim any winter fuel money this winter.Or any benfits.I am still working.

thank you

denise wood
Jon B says:

July 18, 2011 at 12:05 pm

I am now over 60 but dont qualify for anything as I was born after april 51
why am I not suprised
Peter Hurst says:

July 7, 2011 at 9:51 am

I have been unemployed for over 2 years and receive Pension Credit – I have the opportunity to go into a partenership in a marketing business which was my previous job but need to input some money which I do not have – are there any start up grants available to help me get off Pension Credit
kandice nolan says:

June 30, 2011 at 10:42 am

I am almost afraid to submit this story as I feel that there will
be very negative comments ! I am 65 years of age, British born and went to Rhodesia with my parents (only child). Dad was is the British army prior to their move, and at the age of 80 qualified for 50.00 pounds per MONTH pension. This never increased until his death at 95. All Zimbabwe pensions became worthless and Britain stepped in to assist these ex Federation civil servants. My husband died a long time ago and I worked to support Dad and myself firstly in Zimbabwe and then in South Africa where I am still living. The total amount we were able to get from Zimbabwe after 40 years was the equivalent of 75.00 pounds. It has been a battle for years but with subsidised accommodation from the school where I am still working it has been fine. I am most likely going to be told that at 66 in 2012, I will have to leave. I will receive a small pension of around 30.00 pounds per month. So ……… I have no option but to return to the land of my birth and be what the British residents call `burdens’. This is not through choice as I love Africa, but Africa has left many of us without any savings and certainly no assistance when old age kicks in.
I have never asked anyone for anything and have been able to support an invalid husband and penniless father for many years. I have been alone now for 10 years and have no further options. If I can get some accommodation somewhere in England I will mange ……… I would appreciate any information on what I should pursue. Thank you
- ray wilson says:
  
  July 21, 2011 at 7:36 pm
  
  If illegal immigrants can sponge off the british tax payer why should you not.
Mr P Best says:

June 10, 2011 at 4:10 pm

I ahve been unemployed sice the end of april( self employed, no work) and am 59 years old. My wife is also 59, almost 60. We are living off savings with no benifits, etc, claimed
What would we be able to claim for now and when either of us reach 60
Should I sign on? what about paying stamps etc/

Thanks
- sandra says:
  
  July 10, 2011 at 9:01 am
  
  Hi I have just reached 60 and have looked into benefits which I may be elegible for.There are financial thresholds for which benefits can be claimed.
  My advice would would be make an appointment with your local citizens advice.Many now have offices in local centres mine has advice sessions in local GP surgeries.Direct.gov.uk have sites wher you can get advice and some allow you to fill in questionnaires to see if you would be eligable for benefits
  
  good luck
Morna McKittrick says:

June 7, 2011 at 11:43 pm

I’d like to report to 59 year olds just how great it is to be 60. I feel the same yet a state pension, (belatedly after an extra 7 months to wait this year), a bus pass, train pass, 10% off vet’s bills, free eye and teeth check, cheaper tickets for cinema, trade shows, cheaper insurance: it goes on and on. I am still working but a out and about more than ever. I love being 60.
I do feel a bit of a cadger mind as I cannot understand why women, who can expect to live longer, get these benefits before men. I also feel sorry for the women who are about to lose out on earlier pensions.
John Stevenson says:

June 1, 2011 at 9:45 am

I know that until at least 2005 class 1 national insurance contributions ceased to be due on reaching age 60 for both men and women. This seems to have changed to cessation on reaching state retirement age. When did it change and what was the legislation that caused the change?
Linda P says:

April 16, 2011 at 4:23 pm

I am 60 in July but my Husband is 57 when can I recieve my retirement pension, when I am 60 or when my husnabd retires at 65.
- Beatrice Dixon says:
  
  June 27, 2011 at 7:26 pm
  
  You will get your state pension at your new state retirement age, depending when it is, I had to wait an extra 5 months for mine, as the government inches the woman’s retirement age forward to age 65. Check the pensions website, and either phone them, or download a form BR19 for a State Pension Forecast, it will tell you all you need to know.
Peter Hawkins says:

April 5, 2011 at 7:33 am

After my wife retired this year, I have been considering the options of joining her in retirement due to me suffering with cancer. Although I have not reached retirement age myself, I have read the article on the opt out of work for men under the age of 60 for £202 a week pension credit. Would I still have to pay my National Insurance Contributions, and if so, how much would it be, and where do I send the payment.
Kind Regards
Peter.
june muskett says:

March 31, 2011 at 3:19 pm

How on earth are people like the lady who said she had to live on 67.00 a week expected to survive. i intended to work until 65 and not claim my state pension til then, but there were so many changes in my company i felt i had no choice but to take voluntary redudancy, a years pay and leave. i now live on my company pension and state pension, i can manage with my income but not live extravagantly as have a mortgage, and below 65 am still far too highly taxed, so how on earth can the poor woman have any sort of life on the income she receives,Its disgraceful, the way pensioners are treated in this country, no-one with a small company pension should be taxed as highly as i am, makes you wonder is it worth paying into one. Lots of pensioners me included would be happy to work, but who will give us a job, not many,i am convinced the changes in my company was to make sure most over 50s left, attitudes to older people must change if people will not be able to claim their pensions til 70, but you can bring in as many acts as you like but you cannot stop companies trying to get rid of their over 50s workforce and it will go on sadly.
Chris says:

March 23, 2011 at 6:02 pm

Hi all,

I would like to add that anyone on state pension or other benefits can get FREE loft and cavity wall insulation saving you around £350 per year and keeping in 60% of your heat inside your home, (based on having loft and cavity wall insulation.

These are available for free due to government grants.

If i can be of any assistance please call me on 0800 998 7798
or email me at TOGenergy@gmail.com

Chris MacPherson
- Chris says:
  
  April 20, 2011 at 11:14 pm
  
  I think the government have recently changed the rules on help with home insulation etc “The Warm Front” has had its budget cut by millions this year and is to be phased out by next year so I have been informed.
William Watson says:

March 19, 2011 at 4:46 pm

What I cant understand why over 60 years like myself we get free bus passes, free prescriptions, 1/3 off rail travel etc etc, that we dont get free glasses although we get free eye tests.

I cannot afford to pay for the frame and the glass, so I have used old frames still this way it costly (£40.00) when you are on a tight budget.
Jan says:

March 11, 2011 at 2:24 pm

To qualify for Pension Credit/Bus passes and Heating allowance you have to be receiving your State pension. It makes no diiference if you have paid more than the required 30 years contributions, I have paid for over 40, reached 60 in January but, won’t get my pension until November. I currently live (exist) off private pensions of £67.45 per week, the Government states that I require £65.45 to live on so therefore can get NO help whatsoever. My shopping I do online once a month for a delivery charge of £5.00 because I cannot afford the return bus fare of £5.50 to the local supermarket. I sit in my tiny kitchen to eat my one meal a day because then I can keep warm from the residue heat produced by the cooker. I am riddled with arthritus and osteoporosis and go to bed at 9pm wrapped in quilts to keep warm. In November, if I don’t starve before then, I will be rich! It’s terrible that we have to wish our lives away like this!
- jill says:
  
  April 19, 2011 at 9:37 pm
  
  I’m sure you can have a free bus pass if over 60 even if not in receipt of your state pension yet. I have been told by my local council (in Wales) that I am eligible to apply – I have just turned 60 and am working part-time – not eligible for my state pension until March 2012. I would strongly advise you to inquire!
  
  Jill
  - Wendy says:
    
    May 3, 2011 at 4:30 pm
    
    Not true in Somerset, alas.
    I turned 60 yesterday and telephoned today (quick off the mark!) to enquire about applying for my free bus pass. I was told that I have to wait until I receive my pension in another year and a quarter…”thanks to David Cameron and his bunch”. How much sense does this make? This supposedly “greenest ever” government are actually delaying people using public transport instead of their cars. Another great idea, Mr. Cameron.
- Chris says:
  
  April 20, 2011 at 11:07 pm
  
  You certainly can get your heating allowance and bus pass without getting a state pension. I am 61 and still in full time employment not claiming a pension and I qualify and enjoy the benifits of both (And the free prescriptions and eye tests)
  
  Chris (Devon)
  - pat says:
    
    June 15, 2011 at 11:51 am
    
    No, you can’t get your bus pass until the time you actually get your pension. I turned sixty in Dec 2010 and I can’t get mine til september this year.
  - Beatrice Dixon says:
    
    June 27, 2011 at 7:33 pm
    
    It’s irrelevant whether or not you actually RECEIVE your state pension (as some people defer it). What is relevant is your State Retirement Age – check the Direct.Gov website to find out what yours is. I suspect that all councils operate the bus pass scheme under the same rules, although some (like mine, in Rother, East Sussex) extend their times and so I can use my bus pass from 9am.
sirous says:

March 4, 2011 at 10:14 pm

Dear Sir on 13 jun 1951 i am going to sixty i dont now what i have t do thank you
- Dick Valentine says:
  
  March 8, 2011 at 8:18 pm
  
  Have a party?
sirous says:

March 4, 2011 at 10:09 pm

Dear Sir on 13 jun 1951 i am going be sixty what i have do thank you
maggie says:

March 1, 2011 at 9:47 pm

Re holiday insurance – try Marks and Spencer Premium Accounts. For a monthly fee you get quite a few benefits, including a holiday insurance, world-wide. I have been more than happy with them. I think the maximum age limit is 80 years of age. But check this. By the way, the holiday insurance covers for two people.
Anthony says:

February 24, 2011 at 12:10 am

This page should be updated to show the changes the government has made particularly that items such as free bus passes are no longer available at age 60 but at an older age.
kathleen critchlow says:

January 12, 2011 at 10:08 am

When you reach 60 do you get free dental treatment
- Carole says:
  
  March 24, 2011 at 12:28 am
  
  Sorry Kathleen, no is the answer to your question. If you are on pension credit then dental treatment is free.
ping fat mo says:

December 13, 2010 at 8:19 pm

hi my dad is 80 years old and recieves the state pension and pension credit hes not very mobile at the moment we are not a ricj fmaily and are in reciept of concil tax and housing benefits due my self going bankrupt last year we have little or no income bar benefits and wondering is there anything my dad can claim to help with costs
- sandra says:
  
  July 10, 2011 at 9:23 am
  
  HI HAVE YOU TRIED TO CLAIM ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE FOR YOUR FATHER,IF NO ONE IS CLAIMING CARERS ALLOWANCE HE MAY BE ABLE TO CLAIM THE HIGHER RATE TOWARDS THE COST OF PAYING FOR HELP NEEDED.HE WILL HAVE THE CHOICE HOW HE USES THE MONEY IF HE IS ELIGABLE.YOU CAN DO A SELF ASSESSMENT ON LINE BY LOGGING ON TO Direct.gov.uk and looking into Attendance Allowance
  
  Good Luck
  
  BEST WISHES
joe page says:

November 20, 2010 at 12:32 am

hi
on my next birthday in nov 2011 i will be 60 years of old .the company i work for has told me that my job is being made reduntant in march 2011.so from march i will be unemployed.
i have no hope of getting another job.although i would like to work.
i have been working from the age of 15 years with continue service. i have never claimed unemployement benifit in my life.
some people have told me tht i should get about 60 pounds for the first six months then they will stop it .one person to;d me that it is diffrent with people over 60 years of age.that there benifits dont stop as they are old and not much chance to get the job.they dont need to sign on .thy get paid 60 pounds a wee as long as they dont clam tex credit.but to my informain in 2002 mr darling changed this as he was trying to push over sixties back in to work
can please shed some light on this please
- Joanna Robinson says:
  
  November 29, 2010 at 2:16 pm
  
  Hi Joe,
  
  Thanks for your comment, we’re very sorry to hear about your redundancy. Have a look at our article about coping with redundancy at 50 – http://www.moneymagpie.com/article/1144/coping-with-redundancy-at-50/ – which has loads of top tips on finding work and some information on the benefits you’ll be entitled to.
  
  If you’ve been working for this company for at least two years you will be entitled to redundancy pay. You can find out more about this and all entitlements on the directgov website here http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/RedundancyAndLeavingYourJob/index.htm.
  
  Hope that’s of help, and good luck.
Gerry says:

November 10, 2010 at 5:39 pm

I,am 65yrs but still working 16hrs a week. Do i pay TAX? Thanks
- Joanna Robinson says:
  
  November 29, 2010 at 2:29 pm
  
  Gerry,
  
  The personal allowance for those over 65 is £9,490 – that’s what you can earn without paying tax. Anything you earn over that amount, you will pay tax on at the basic rate.
Olivia says:

October 1, 2010 at 12:23 pm

Hello

I am tryin to get some info or be directed in the right direction for it for my grandparents. They have come to live with my mum from Cyprus as they have no other family there and now need to be looked after. My mum is willing to have them but we would like to know if tehre are any benefits they may entitled to? They are 70 and 64, both EU citizens and have never claimed benefits prior. they dont have much savings and no other form of income. Any help would be appreciated. Kind regards
sue says:

June 8, 2010 at 3:29 pm

I had an accident a couple of years ago when I turned 60. I too, wanted to claim Incapacity benefit as I was working as a freelance and was told by at least 2 people in DWP that my claim defaulted to pension that I had to take my pension and could NOT defer it.
Diane says:

May 7, 2010 at 3:46 pm

Yes I would like information on Passports for the Over 65′s for my Parents. Can you thread the page where I can check if they are entitled to get help with the cost of having to renew their Passports. Thanks
- Mike Mc Mahon says:
  
  August 10, 2010 at 11:15 am
  
  Hi Diane, I am over 80years old on the 26/6/30.I am trying to find out the criteria for getting a free passport—as my existing passport became invalid in May 1995. But I KEEP having the statement that I MUST HAVE been born before 02 Sept 1929. This to me side stepping the question. Surely, it should be that you are eligible if you are over 80 years old. Mike.
K Fursman says:

April 8, 2010 at 12:15 am

I am a retiring in May, when I will be 60, with a younger husband who cannot retire until 2019.
I do not have enough qualifiying stamps for a full state pension and will not be entitled to Pension Credit.
DWP have informed me as I have been on Incapacity Benefit for the last 18 months I have been told I must retire and cannot choose to delay my retirement? Is this correct ? I do not find my Job Centre Plus in Weymouth very helpful and am unsure where to obtain any information. I have had 3 appointments cancelled since January to discuss my situation and due to sickness at the Job Centre PLus time is not on my side . Any information will be gratefully received. I was hoping to continue with NVQ’s but there is no funding and with continuous cancelled appointments it is becomming very stressful as I want to continue to train with NVQ’s. I feel I been discriminated because of my age.
- Jasmine Birtles says:
  
  April 9, 2010 at 7:38 pm
  
  Hi there – I’ve contacted the press office at the DWP about this and they will be in touch to see if they can help. Let me know how you get on!
- reg wood says:
  
  June 1, 2010 at 3:15 pm
  
  good news week for you k fursman,has no one told you and your husband about the good old opt out of work wheeze the government introduced but try to keep quiet for married men under 60.if a young man of any age under 60 has an over 60 female spouse the man can retire.at present you get 202 pounds a week pension credit between you,council tax paid,winter fuel allowance and a free bus pass to look forward to at 60.the dole office wont tell him he can finish work and double his money and get no further hassle to get into training or a job but believe me.i know.i stopped work at 57 as my wife hit 60.life is for living not job hunting non existing jobs and kowtowing for 60 quid a week dole.good luck ring 0800 99 1234
  and all will be revealed.mortgage interest paid as well or all your rent.
  - Sheila Forman says:
    
    October 8, 2010 at 1:34 pm
    
    Hi Reg
    I am very interested in your comments as I have just reached 60 and my husband is 56 and no longer able to work due to illness. He doesn’t want to claim benefits but would like to retire if possible. Where do I go for details about this. Would be very grateful for any information you can supply.
    regards Sheila
    - Jasmine Birtles says:
      
      October 11, 2010 at 10:26 am
      
      I think the best thing to do is to contact the Department of Work and Pensions. Go to their website, http://www.dwp.gov.uk and phone the helpline. You might get passed from person to person but do persist. They’re the ones who should have the answers for you.
  - Peter Hawkins says:
    
    April 5, 2011 at 8:01 pm
    
    After my wife retired this year, I have been considering the options of joining her in retirement due to me suffering from cancer. Although I have not reached retirement age myself, I have read the article on the opt out of work for men under 60 at £202 per week pension credit. Would I still need to pay National Insurance Contributions, and if so, how much will it be, and where do I send the payments.
    Kind Regards.
    Peter Hawkins.
- lindsay says:
  
  June 17, 2010 at 11:40 pm
  
  Hi
  I was just browsing this site doing some research on gov income/expenditure categories and I came across this site.
  Now whilst I am aware there are people in “need” of financial assistance and aid your post appears to support simply seeking how to get as much money from everybody else as possible. I mean I’m sorry but its your responsibility to look after yourself and not have your children and other peoples children work to provide you with with things you want.
  The young generation enters life with such a large debt burden already and seriously why should they pay for others who didnt save. And similarly there are many many old people who worked hard,lived frugally and saved and have been responsible, why should they help keep you?
  If you and your husband haven’t been able to live a responsible financial life them tough luck, not my problem!
  And seriously you want other people to pay for a 60 year old to do NVQs????
  Its not discrimination its common sense!
  Why should I and every other tax payer pay maybe £20,000 for you to learn a new skill with which you will only utilise for perhaps another two years (if that) before you again try and get as much money from everyone else as you can for sitting at home doing nothing. Have some pride.
  - Chris says:
    
    June 22, 2010 at 1:14 pm
    
    Have you considered you may be wrong? Your attitude could be one which encourages pensioners not to claim heating allowance for example, or their bus pass, because they are too proud.
    Anyone claiming anything to which he is lawfully entitled should be encouraged; after all he will have been paying for it for more than 45 years, tax upon tax, upon tax.
    Ask yourself if you are being a little too self righteous.
  - joan says:
    
    November 5, 2010 at 3:29 pm
    
    phew someone on the same planet as me – what is going on in this world. i left my job at age 50 to take a degree which i hoped would better my financial situation – it didn’t – i ended up back at the bottom of my original ladder after climbing off it half way up – no regrets – i now face retirement as a poor person who never had enough money to save for a pension but i won’t be asking for anything from anybody – i will carry on working in my retirement and looking after myself.
    - sandra says:
      
      April 11, 2011 at 11:52 am
      
      then i hope you dont get cancer like that poor man.Hes paid his dues and why should we expect someone to work when they are that sick?ive worked since i was 15 and ive had six children and never claimed anything ive worked part time and full time .theres people coming into this country and taking our benefits.But i suppose you thinlk thats okay?
Jerry says:

March 2, 2010 at 7:56 pm

For this years Winter Fuel Payment you need to be aged 60 or over, on or before 27 September 2009. People over 80 can get up to £150 more.

I’ve also found this site very useful for saving money if you’re over 60 seniorsdiscounts.co.uk
jan says:

November 10, 2009 at 8:41 pm

How do you get the winter fuel allowance?
- Jasmine Birtles says:
  
  November 11, 2009 at 12:45 pm
  
  If you’re over-60 you should get it automatically. There’s info here on the Government’s website http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Benefits/BenefitsInRetirement/DG_10018657. There’s an application form there too if you need to use it.
  - Laurie Margolis says:
    
    August 11, 2010 at 12:48 pm
    
    Not quite as simple as just being 60. My birthday was August 1st, just gone. But this year you needed to be 60 by July 5th, 2010, and that date is coming forward each year now. So it’s still furniture on the fire this winter
jan says:

November 10, 2009 at 8:41 pm

I,m 60 and retired how do I get the winter allowance?
John Hedgecock says:

October 1, 2009 at 2:52 pm

were can i get a claims for heating allowance
Nigel Withyman says:

August 28, 2009 at 10:56 am

I’m not too sure whether this is the correct place to pass on my comment but here it is for what it’s worth.
I have now retired, age 60 and not only been made redundant but also cannot work for medical reasons (I no longer have to submit ‘sick notes’). I have a small pension which just about lets me get by but is big enough to preclude me from getting any Incapacity or Disability Allowances. I do however qualify for Council Tax Relief – the princely sum of £2 a week – but, joy of joys, just this small amount opens the door for me to benefit from the ‘Warm Front’ Grant, a Government sponsored initiative which will provide up to £3,500 for home heating/insulation improvements eg cavity wall and loft insulation, double glazing, installation or improvements to existing systems, draught proofing etc.
Warm Front can be contacted on 0800 072 9006 or e mail enquiry@eaga.com
It’s worth a try!
- Pauline says:
  
  June 29, 2010 at 6:42 pm
  
  Nigel
  you may be entitled to disability living
  allwance.this is not a means tested benefit.
  You need a proper review of your benefits
  the direct gov website will give you the criteria
  for claiming DLA.
  If you think you have an entitlement then
  find a specialist agency to help you submit
  the claim.I do not advise you to do it yourself.
  We have DIAL who do the claims in Suffolk .
Shaik Ahamath says:

July 6, 2009 at 10:21 am

I am 71 and my wife is 60 in August. She wants to defer her pension and continue working. Would I receive the married couples amount of pension.
Jasmine Birtles says:

May 15, 2009 at 3:16 pm

hi Glenda. There is a helpful page on this on Direct.gov.uk (an excellent government website). See this page http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Over50s/Benefits/BenefitsInRetirement/DG_10018657 which has an explanation of how to apply.
Glenda Wallace says:

May 14, 2009 at 2:03 pm

I didn’t get the £60 extra allowance for fuel and would like to know how and where I can enquire about this.

Thank you

Glenda Wallace
HM734748B