State pensioners are being offered a host of perks, freebies, and discounts worth thousands of pounds in June. The sixth month of the year has begun, with retirees continuing to feel the financial strain from the ongoing conflict in Iran.
Pension Increases and Support
The war in the Gulf is hitting pensioners hard. The state pension is paid at two rates: the full new state pension and the basic old state pension. However, both are under £300 per week, leaving retirees vulnerable to rising living costs. Following an April increase, Pension Credit has risen by 4.8% and is now worth an average of £4,300 per year, unlocking additional support such as help with housing costs, council tax, and free television licenses.
Labour Party Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden stated: "I know global shocks and their effects on our living costs are increasing anxiety for many households. This government will always protect our pensioners, which is why we are raising the full rate of the new State Pension by up to £575 this coming year."
Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell added: "After a lifetime of work and contribution, people deserve a decent retirement. Raising the State Pension faster than prices ensures it is a pension they can rely on, making that a reality for millions."
Free Prescriptions – £118
Once you reach 60, you can get free prescriptions from your local pharmacy. In England, each NHS prescription item costs £9.90. Free prescriptions save £9.90 per medicine. For someone needing just one medication per month, free prescriptions save £118.80 annually. For four items per month, the saving jumps to £475.20 per year. This benefit is automatic and requires no application. If you are 60 or over, you are also entitled to a free NHS sight test, which typically costs between £20 and £30.
Free Dental Treatment – £384
If you receive the Pension Credit guarantee credit element, you can get free NHS dental treatment. This saves you between £27.90 and £332.10 per course of treatment in England, and up to £384 in Scotland and Wales. Your dentist will determine how often you need check-ups, typically every 12 to 24 months, but possibly as often as every three months.
Free TV Licence – £180
Pension Credit also qualifies you for a free TV licence if you are 75 or older. A standard TV licence costs £180. You can apply online or by calling 0300 790 6117 between 8.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Friday. If you are 74 and already receiving Pension Credit, you can apply but must pay for your licence until the end of the month before your 75th birthday, after which the free licence covers you.
Council Tax Discount – Up to £2,280
The average Band D council tax in England for 2025–26 is £2,280, a 5% increase from the previous year. If you are on Pension Credit, you can apply for a discount or reduction of up to 100%. Even without guarantee credit, you may still receive help if you have a low income and less than £16,000 in savings. Contact your local council for details.
Social Tariffs – £234
Switching to a broadband social tariff typically saves eligible households between £150 and £234 per year, depending on the provider. These plans avoid mid-contract price hikes and often have zero exit fees, making them an excellent safety net for those struggling with rising costs.
Discounted Water Bills – £325
Every water company offers a social tariff scheme that reduces bills for those on a low income or receiving benefits like Pension Credit. Discounts can range from 25% to 99%, saving many households £100 to £325 or more per year, depending on income, benefits, and provider.
Free Insulation and Boiler Grants – £1,500
If you claim Pension Credit, you may qualify for free cavity wall and loft insulation through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO). These government-backed schemes fund home energy efficiency upgrades like insulation and heat pumps. The current phase, ECO4, runs until late 2026 and can cover up to 100% of installation costs, with some grants worth £1,500.
Free Bus Pass – £1,277
A free bus pass can save you between £600 and over £1,000 annually, depending on your location. In London, a single adult bus fare is £1.75. Taking two trips per day for commuting or errands adds up to £3.50 daily, or up to £1,277 per year.
Days Out – £30
Many attractions offer discounts for pensioners, saving around £30 on days out.
