14 freebies and discounts over-60s can claim before state pension
A string of deals, discounts and perks are available for older UK households, it has emerged.
14 freebies over-60s can claim BEFORE their Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) state pensions have been revealed. A string of deals, discounts and perks are available for older UK households, it has emerged.
Currently, you can retire at 66 and claim the state pension - but this is changing. And there's no need to wait because there are perks available nationwide for older people who have hit the milestone age.
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Firms give discounts to older customers to encourage them to spend, although they are not always well advertised. Some of the most valuable start when you hit 60, while there are many more that kick in at 65 or state pension age ā now 66.
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The 60+ Oyster pass is a travel scheme provided by the Mayor of London and Transport for London. It is a separate scheme to the Freedom Pass.
In order to be eligible for a 60+ Oyster pass you must be over 60 but not yet be eligible for a Freedom Pass and have your sole or principal residence in London.
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The pass allows free travel on buses, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground and most National Rail services in London. Pass holders also get a discounted fare on River services and IFS Cloud Cable Car.
60+ Oyster pass holders are not entitled to free travel on services outside of London.
When you turn 60, you can apply for a Merseytravel Over 60s local concession travel pass, which gives you free travel on local buses, trains in the Merseyside area, in addition to cross-river commuter journeys on Mersey Ferries.
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Once you reach State Pension Age, youāll also get an English National Concessionary Travel Pass. This lets you travel for free on local bus services anywhere in England.
To find out when youāll reach State Pension Age, just visit the Government website.
National Express says: "If you're 60 or over and love visiting family and friends or taking day trips and short breaks, our Senior Coachcard offers a great way to save 1/3 on Standard and Fully Flexible fares to hundreds of towns, cities and airports across the UK."
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It adds: "Plus - it's now bigger and better than ever, with £15 day returns on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays!"
Over-60s can buy a £30 annual Senior Railcard or £70 three-year Senior Railcard, giving a third off rail travel. The only restriction is morning peak-time services within London and the South East where the discount cannot be used.
If you are over 60 or have a disability, you could be eligible for free bus travel to get around Scotland and your local area. You can access this via the National Entitlement Card, your pass to free bus travel in Scotland.
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The scheme provides free travel on registered local and long-distance bus services throughout Scotland, at any time of day for any number of journeys. Only some services premium-fare services, tours/excursions and group hire services are excluded.
The National Entitlement Card scheme also allows for free travel for companions where required by eligible disabled people of any age (including children under 5).
If you have been a National Trust member for three consecutive years and are over 60, you qualify for a discounted Senior Membership, with 25 per cent off normal adult rates.
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This costs £68.40 for an individual or £113.40 for a couple.
Many UK cinemas offer discounted tickets for pensioners, often through "Silver Screen" or similar programs. These screenings are typically held during matinee times and may include free refreshments
Odeon offers discounted "Silver Screen" tickets for over 60s, often for just £3.50, and includes free tea, coffee, and biscuits.
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Many restaurants and pubs offer smaller portions and cheaper menus for over-60s. Greene King pubs usually have a Senior Menu with reduced prices for over-60s, while Asdaās cafe has ten per cent off for over-60s on Wednesdays.
Dobbies Garden Centres offer over 60s a main meal and a cake for only £11.95 Monday to Friday, from 12pm until 3pm.
Every Tuesday, all those who are 60 years old and older can bag 10 percent off their shop, with no minimum spend, at Iceland and The Food Warehouse.
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Boots the chemist has an Over 60s rewards programme which will give double Advantage Card points. There are also events like prize draws, and you'll receive extra points at Boots Hearingcare.
These are always free in Wales and Scotland, but do not become so in England until you turn 60. Those living in Wales can get free dental examinations once they turn 60.
Eye tests are free on the NHS once you turn 60 and can be taken at almost any optician. Specsavers offers over-60s 20 per cent off glasses that cost £70 or more, including frames and extras.
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If youāre over 60 and buy a pair of glasses from the chain for Ā£70 or move, youāll get 20% off. The deal includes frames, lenses and any Extra Options such as treatments to protect your lenses or offer sun protection.
Better Helath says: "If youāre 66 and over and looking to get more active, a Better Senior Membership allows you to access our range of gyms, swimming pools and leisure facilities, all at a competitive price.
"With accessible equipment, personalised inductions, and variety of exercise classes suitable for over 60s, our senior memberships empower you to take charge of your fitness.
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"At Better, we believe that staying socially active is just as important as staying physically active ā at any age. Thatās why we run regular senior activity programmes for our senior leisure and gym membership holders in many of our centres across the UK, offering the opportunity to meet new people and grow friendships near you.
"Sign up for a Better senior membership today and enjoy all these perks, plus the advantage of no-contract flexibility."
Older people up to the website over60sdiscounts.co.uk to land some great money-saving deals in later life at high street stores.
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Servicing group ATS Euromaster offers discounts to those who join its Club 60 group. These include 15 per cent off servicing, and air-conditioning recharges for £49.