Across Great Britain, around 13 million people have now reached State Pension age, including over 1.1 million in Scotland. For many retirees, the contributory State Pension remains the main source of income, providing essential financial support. Currently, 4.1 million recipients of the New State Pension receive up to £921 every four weeks, while 8.8 million people on the Basic State Pension get up to £705.80. It is crucial for anyone approaching or already drawing their pension to understand the wide range of benefits and discounts available — from DWP payments to Council Tax reductions and heating assistance.

Beyond the main pension, several income-boosting benefits exist. For instance, Pension Credit offers an average of £4,300 annually, typically processed within 50 working days, meaning eligible claimants could start receiving payments before the end of June. The MoneyHelper website provides a comprehensive list of entitlements and quick eligibility checks. Using an online benefits calculator is the fastest way to confirm what you qualify for — and older family members or friends without internet access should be assisted to claim what they’re due in 2025.

A wide variety of benefits and discounts are available for those over State Pension age, including State Pension, Pension Credit, Council Tax support, and help with heating costs (often linked to means-tested benefits). Others include health-related payments such as Attendance Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment, as well as travel, TV, and even war-related entitlements.

The State Pension itself provides a taxable income for life once a claim is made. It’s not means-tested and is based on National Insurance contributions or credits. A minimum of 10 qualifying years is needed for any payment, and around 35 years for the full amount. For the 2025/26 financial year, the Full New State Pension is £230.25 per week, while the Full Basic State Pension (Category A or B) stands at £176.45.

Pension Credit supports roughly 1.4 million people in the UK, including 125,000 in Scotland. Averaging £4,300 in support per year, it acts as a ‘gateway benefit’, unlocking access to Council Tax discounts, NHS help, housing support, and free TV Licences for those over 75. Eligibility can be checked using the Pension Credit Calculator or by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.

Whether homeowners or renters, pensioners may qualify for Council Tax reductions via their local authority. Individuals are advised to contact their council directly to apply.

Various home heating schemes exist to improve energy efficiency. Eligibility often depends on income-related benefits such as Pension Credit, especially if the home is poorly insulated. For guidance, contact Home Energy Scotland or call 0808 808 2282.

In Scotland, residents enjoy free prescriptions, and information about free dental treatment or travel cost refunds for hospital appointments is also accessible.

For those with disabilities or long-term health conditions, several supportive benefits are available, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP) in Scotland, and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for those who claimed before pension age. Attendance Allowance — or its Scottish equivalent, Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) — provides vital help to those who didn’t claim earlier forms of disability support.

Travel concessions are another major benefit for those over 60 or with disabilities. Details can be found on the Transport Scotland website.

British nationals born before September 2, 1929, may be eligible for a free passport, with full details available on GOV.UK.

A TV Licence remains free for pensioners receiving Pension Credit and half-price for individuals registered as severely sight-impaired. More information can be found on the MoneyHelper TV licence advice page.

Lastly, specific war-related benefits apply to widows, widowers, and veterans. Those affected by service-related injuries or deaths before April 6, 2005, may qualify for the War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension. Later cases may be covered by the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, with details on GOV.UK.

For continued updates and financial advice, visit Age Scotland or join the Daily Record’s Money Saving Scotland Facebook community and Record Money newsletter for helpful insights.