13 benefits you might be able to get after you retire

Many people reach retirement and find that the income from their pension isn’t enough to live comfortably. In fact, according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, up to 2.1 million (or 1 in 6) pensioners in the UK are living in poverty.[1] Add to this the ongoing cost of living crisis and it’s perhaps no surprise that thousands of retirees are struggling to make ends meet.

But did you know that every year billions of pounds of benefits go unclaimed? There are a number of benefits available to retired people that many aren’t aware of or believe they’re not eligible for, including help with winter fuel payments, support for Council Tax, and discounts on public transport. 

In this article, we list 13 benefits that retired people can potentially claim, explain the eligibility rules around each one, and give you some helpful links that can help you find out more or begin your application process.

1. Pension Credit

Pension Credit is a benefit that’s available to people over State Pension age who are on a low income. It tops up your weekly income to a certain level and can be used to help pay for housing costs, such as ground rent or service charges. People who receive Pension Credit can also get additional benefits including Housing Benefit, Cost of Living Payments and Support for Mortgage Interest.

To qualify for Pension Credit, you must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached State Pension age. If you have a partner, you must include them on your application. Your weekly income must be below £218.15 if you’re single or £332.95 (jointly) if you have a partner. A successful Pension Credit application will see your weekly income topped up to match this threshold.

If your income is already higher than this, you may still be eligible if you have a disability, you care for someone, or you have housing costs. You can read more about Pension Credit and how to apply on the gov.uk website here.

2. Council Tax Reduction

If you’re on a low income or you claim other benefits, you may be eligible to receive a reduction in Council Tax. Depending on your circumstances, you could have your Council Tax bill reduced by a full 100% with the Council Tax Reduction scheme (sometimes called Council Tax Support) - this means, if you meet certain requirements, you might not have to pay any Council Tax at all.

However, the amount taken off your bill depends on a number of factors, including where you live, your income, your UK residency status, and if any other individuals are living with you.

You have to apply for Council Tax Reduction through your local council. The gov.uk website has a helpful postcode finder where you can input your postcode and it will take you to the dedicated website for your local council. From there you can read more about their Council Tax Reduction scheme and begin your application if you’re eligible. Click here to get started.

3. Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is a one-off annual payment from the government to help pensioners cover the cost of heating bills. For the 2024-25 winter, those born before 23 September 1958 could get either £200 or £300.