10 Great Freebies & Discounts for Over-60s

ā€¢ Written by Josh

As you get older, it’s important to make the most of your money. Whether you’re approaching retirement or already receiving your pension, you’ll likely be thinking about how best toĀ manage and protect your finances.Ā Luckily, there are plenty of discounts available for older people. To make sure you don’t miss out, we’ve put together a list of 10 great freebies and discounts for over-60s.

Top 10 Discounts for Over-60s

Whether you’re looking to travel across the country, pick up some new bits for your home, or to treat yourself to a cinema trip, there is something on this list for everyone. Of course, these are just 10 examples of the great freebies and discounts that are available for older people. It’s always worth checking before you book or buy; there might be a discount waiting for you.

1. Ride the Rail

It’s really important for older people to keep a strong social network. One way to do this is by heading out to visit friends and family across the country. It seems that train fares are always on the rise ā€“ but if you’re over 60, you can purchase tickets at a discounted price.

By purchasing a Senior Railcard you can get 1/3 off rail fares. Better yet is the fact that there are always special offers on railcards, meaning you can save even more money on your train journeys. If you have a Tesco Clubcard, you could use your points to get a 1-year Railcard for Ā£15 instead of Ā£30. However, if you’re a frequent traveller, you’ll want to go for the 3-year Railcard for Ā£70 to get the best value.

You can apply for a Senior Railcard up to 14 days before your 60th birthday. You can also choose to receive a digital Railcard instead of a physical, plastic Railcard. The advantage of the digital version is that you can start using it straight away, as there’s no need to wait for postage. You can also store it on up to two devices, so there’s no need to worry about losing the actual card.

  • If you prefer coach travel, National Express has the Senior Coachcard, which also gives you a 1/3 off standard and fully flexible fares across the country.

2. Iceland Over-60s Discount

It’s important to keep our cupboards and fridges well stocked, so it’s reassuring to know that some shops are doing their part to help. Supermarket chain Iceland have introduced a discount for over-60s. This deal can be claimed every Tuesday, and applies to every product. There is no minimum spend, either. All you need to be eligible is proof of age and you can get 10% off your weekly shop.

This discount also applies in The Food Warehouse.

3. More Points at Boots

If you prefer cosmetics or regularly stock up on supplements, you’ll want to check out the next of our great discounts for over-60s. You might be aware of the Boots Advantage Card scheme already. But did you know that over-60s can claim double the points on everything they buy at Boots? If you have a Boots Advantage Card and are 60 or over, you can claim extra discounts by joining the Over 60s Rewards scheme.

As a member, you’ll receive 8 points for every Ā£1 you spend on Boots own-brand products and selected other products. There will also be exclusive events such as makeovers and prize draws, and you’ll receive extra points at Boots Hearingcare. What’s more, you’ll save 25% on your first pair of glasses or prescription sunglasses ā€“ more on glasses later.

4. Movie Savings

Going to the cinema has become a pretty expensive hobby over the years. However, some cinemas are now providing discounts for older people. For example, Odeon has the Silver Cinema Club which offers discounts for over-60s. This club includes a series of film screenings of movies aimed at the mature audience, with tickets costing as little as Ā£3.50 across the country. As a bonus, you’ll also receive tea, coffee, and biscuits before the movie starts. Other national cinema chains offer similar schemes, including Empire and Picturehouse. Consider supporting independent cinemas, too, as they may offer concessions for over-60s.

5. Free TV

If you’re over the age of 75 and receive Pension Credit ā€“ or live with a partner in receipt of Pension Credit ā€“ you can enjoy all of your favourite TV shows for free. You’ll need to apply for your free TV Licence before you turn 75 in order to make the process simpler. Once you’ve received your Over 75 licence, it will cover you and anybody who you live with.

Remember, you need a TV Licence if you wish to watch or record live TV programmes on any channel. You’ll also need a licence to download or watch any BBC programmes on the iPlayer system (including live, catch up, or on-demand). This also includes use on tablets, mobile phones, and computers. Apply for your TV Licence today.

Click here to go to the UK Government website and find out whether you are eligible for Pension Credit.

6. Cheaper Haircuts

The cost of a haircut varies across the country for men and women. However, most hairdressers and barbers do offer reduced rates for pensioners on a daily basis. Some even have dedicated days for older clients. It’s worth heading out around your local town to see what deals you can find. We’d also recommend doing your research online ā€“ many barbers and salons will give details of any discounts for over-60s on their websites.

7. Free Bus Pass

The rules on free bus passes for older people have changed in recent years. Currently, in England, you can claim a free older person’s bus pass once you reach the female State Pension age, regardless of your gender. This will provide you with free local bus travel anywhere in England.

In Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, you can get an older person’s bus pass when you turn 60.

If you live in London, the Freedom Pass will grant you free travel on bus, tram, DLR, and most rail services in London, as well as free local bus travel across England.

8. Free Prescriptions

If you’re over 60, any medicine prescribed by a doctor is free anywhere in the UK.Ā To get your free prescriptions, make sure you tell the chemist at the till and fill in the back of the prescription. You might have to show proof of age. This is one of the best freebies for over-60s, as older people are generally more likely to be living with one or more long-term medical conditions.

9. Football Games

Football clubs across the country offer concession ticket prices for older people. The age limit will vary at each club so it’s worth checking out prices on your favourite team’s official website. Some clubs may even offer special senior prices throughout the season. There might also be discounts for over-60s on food and drink at your local stadium.

10. Specsavers Savings

You need to look after your eyes as you get older, as the risk of sight loss and other eye-related conditions increases. In some cases, glasses may be unavoidable, so it’s lucky that Specsavers offer 20% off glasses and lenses if you’re over 60. The only condition is that your glasses of choice are from the Ā£69 range or above. Your glasses will include a scratch-resistant lens treatment as standard. What’s more, you may be eligible for a free NHS-funded eye test. See the Specsavers website for more information about who qualifies.

Bonus Discount: Save on a Personal Alarm

The LifeConnect24 alarm service is designed to promote safety and independence at home. For many people, a personal alarm is also a great way to save money, and there is now a way to save even more. When youĀ buy a personal alarm from LifeConnect24 and use the code BLOG15, you save Ā£15 on our personal alarm service. This is a great saving for extra peace of mind. What’s more, you don’t even need to be over 60 to use it; this offer is open to anyone purchasing a LifeConnect24 alarm.

An alarm lets you call for help quickly in an emergency, often leading to faster medical treatment and better recovery. This can help you live independently at home for as long as possible, rather than having to move into a costly care home. Personal alarms can also help the NHS.

More Freebies and Discounts for Over-60s

And there you have it: 10 great discounts for over-60s in the UK. Of course, this list is by no means exhaustive. Even if we haven’t mentioned your favourite chain or activity on this list, it’s always worth asking a member of staff or checking on the website. There may well be a discount for you, so make sure you claim it.

For more finance tips and money-saving advice, check out the Finance section of our blog.

Personal Alarm Information

For more information about ourĀ life-saving personal alarm service, please get in touch with our friendly team onĀ 0800 030 8999.Ā Alternatively, complete ourĀ contact us formĀ and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also read a quick guide to the pendant alarm service here.


Editor’s Note:Ā This article was updated on 24th June 2024 to reflect current information.

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46 Thoughts On This Blog
Gillian says:
15/03/2022 at 7:54

What can l get now l'm 60? The best senior

LifeConnect24 says:
16/03/2022 at 9:28

Hello Gillian, Most of the discounts on this list will be available to you if you are sixty or over. Some hairdressers, for example, may not provide discounts to over-60s, but many do. You will not be able to get the B&Q Diamond Card, as these are no longer issued. You may want to consider signing up for their B&Q Club scheme, however. You will also not be eligible for a free TV licence until you are over 75. Finally, for older adults in England bus passes are not available until you are 66. If you are in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, however, you are eligible at age 60. We hope this information has proved helpful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Paul Mclarnon says:
05/11/2022 at 11:05

Can I use my bus pass from Northern Ireland in Scotland,England and Wales

LifeConnect24 says:
07/11/2022 at 9:21

Hello Paul, Thank you for your comment. Unfortunately, as they are different schemes, a Northern Ireland bus pass cannot be used elsewhere in the UK, just as bus passes from elsewhere in the UK cannot be used in Northern Ireland. We hope this has proven useful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Ahmed says:
08/01/2023 at 6:11

If you live in a London Borough you can apply for a 60plus Oyster. This gives you free travel within London Boroughs, after 9am, on bus, tube, DLR. tram and most trains

MARY D says:
19/11/2022 at 7:41

Brilliant and helpful! Thanks

William Wild says:
10/05/2022 at 9:24

Why don't the over 60s get free bus travel in other city's like Manchester. Liverpool. . Why just in London in England we all pay taxes and council tax l.

LifeConnect24 says:
11/05/2022 at 9:33

Hello William, Thank you for your comment. Free bus travel is provided in other cities outside of London. For example, you can apply for a travel pass in Manchester here, or in Liverpool here. All areas have their own requirements for application, so be sure to read the eligibility requirements. We hope this has proved helpful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Pamela says:
05/09/2022 at 12:21

Is this primarily for people in the UK? I live in the states

LifeConnect24 says:
05/09/2022 at 8:01

Hello Pamela, Thank you for your comment. Yes, all information in this article is for UK residents. LifeConnect24 is a UK company, providing services to UK customers. We hope this has provided clarification. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Sue Brown says:
09/06/2022 at 6:53

Over 60's do get a local bus and Merseyrail pass in Liverpool.

Margaret Sutcliffe says:
22/10/2022 at 3:08

We do get free bus travel in other towns, I live in West Yorkshire and. Travel free after 9-30 am..

Sue says:
07/02/2023 at 6:11

I heard they are available from age 60+ in Liverpool (for residents of Liverpool). Lots of authorities provide discount travel for their own residents (on bus AND train fares) but sometimes they are not well known about. You need to enquire locally.

Laura says:
03/06/2023 at 10:10

You get free bus travel across the whole of Scotland over 60

Siobahn Moore says:
12/05/2022 at 11:06

Editor's note says this article was updated Jan 2022 and it still has incorrect information. TV licences for the over 75's are no longer free

LifeConnect24 says:
12/05/2022 at 1:28

Hello Siobahn, Thank you for your comment. In the section on free TV licences, we have added an update explaining that over-75s can still receive a free TV licence provided they are in receipt of Pension Credit, as outlined here. We hope this has proved useful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Joseph Harper says:
12/06/2022 at 5:39

I've been informed that I'll have to wait till I'm 66 (State Pension age, which seems to be changing all the time) to get my Bus Pass? Is this true now?

LifeConnect24 says:
13/06/2022 at 7:12

Hello Joseph, Thank you for your comment. Different local authorities provide different concessions to elderly people. Generally speaking, though, most authorities do require that you have reached State Pension Age to receive a Bus Pass. We hope this have proved helpful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Margaret says:
16/08/2022 at 1:03

If you live in merseyside you can get a 60s bus pass from merseytravel, you can travel free after 9 30 on the bus, and train any where in merseyside

maureen oconnell says:
08/08/2022 at 3:49

If you are 60 go to your post office for 20 pounds you can get a 60 plus bus pass which you can use until you get to 66 when they will sent you your freedom bus pass you will need two size passports photo if you are in London not sure about other area

Diane Durbin says:
21/07/2022 at 10:37

Any help with Dental costs please.

LifeConnect24 says:
26/07/2022 at 7:52

Hello Diane, Thank you for your comment. We will soon be posting an article about support with dental costs. We hope this will prove useful. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Eunice Hodgson says:
08/08/2022 at 7:29

Thank you so much for all of this information, I am a volunteer at a "Open Doors" drop in, this information we will make sure our socially isolated service users are aware of. Thak you again Eunice

Julie Venn says:
31/08/2022 at 1:11

I am diabetic and have neuropathy.My legs give way and I am unsteady at times. I reach 60 in 3 weeks. I do not claim any benefits, neither do I earn any money due to leaving work with my neurological problems. I am living off my savings and Widows Pension. Will I not be able to claim a bus pass at 60? This is so disappointing.

LifeConnect24 says:
01/09/2022 at 8:10

Hello Julie, Thank you for your comment. You will be able to apply for a bus pass when you reach state pension age. However, by contacting your local council and explaining your circumstances, you may be eligible to apply for a free bus pass earlier. This will depend on your local authority's policies, however. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Magenta says:
04/12/2022 at 12:21

Apply for PIP. it is not means tested. You can get help with the form from Age UK. Make the form say what you want it to say, and beware the tick box! If you have PIP/DLA, then you can apply for Disabled Person Bus Pass. If ypu have mobility issues, you should be applying for it anyway. It will help. Just think and take time with the form. Evidence as much as you can (medical letters/care plans/medication scripts). Good luck

Valerie Cotton says:
05/12/2022 at 2:29

TV license is no longer free, I am 77yrs old and I have to pay for it?

LifeConnect24 says:
05/12/2022 at 3:00

Hello Valerie, Thank you for your comment. As our article states, you can apply for a free TV licence if you or the person you live with are in receipt of Pension Credit. Whilst we understand the frustration of being required to pay if you are over 75 but not in receipt of Pension Credit, we hope some of the other freebies and discounts listed in this article will prove useful to you. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Sadiyah Muhammad says:
22/01/2023 at 1:54

Thanks so much for the information. Does the Boots Advantage discount apply to Boots Opticians as well or just SpecSavers?

LifeConnect24 says:
23/01/2023 at 8:29

Hello Sadiyah, Thank you for your comment. With the Boots Advantage scheme for over-60s, you can save 20% off your glasses prescription, plus extra points for every pound you spend. Plus, over-60s are eligible for free eye tests at Boots and Specsavers, courtesy of the NHS. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Diane says:
28/01/2023 at 8:46

Very informative. My Chemist told me about free prescriptions for over 60s. When I picked up my asthma medication 1 week before my Birthday!

Andrea Watts says:
02/02/2023 at 4:47

Thank you all so much for all this useful information I will be sharing with as many people as possible. Kind regards

Mr A Ahmed says:
12/05/2023 at 3:01

Hello Iā€™m a volunteer Carea for a Disabled 65yr Male I need Advice for Motorbility for him , heā€™s on standard PIP Like your advice please

LifeConnect24 says:
15/05/2023 at 7:22

Hello Mr Ahmed, Thank you for your comment. Unfortunately, according to our research, he is only eligible to apply for the Motability scheme if he is receiving the higher allowance of PIP. More information can be found in the Motability FAQs. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

CC says:
12/01/2024 at 11:42

Motorbility is only available if you get higher rate MOBILITY PIP- not higher dailyliving PIP

LifeConnect24 says:
15/01/2024 at 9:16

Thank you for this clarification. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Pami says:
14/05/2023 at 10:20

When do over 60s get free dental care ore replacement of teeth

LifeConnect24 says:
15/05/2023 at 7:18

Hello Pami, Thank you for your comment. According to our research, free dental implants are not generally available unless received after facial trauma. However, you may be eligible for free dentures. You may be able to receive free dental care on the NHS if you are in receipt of Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. Unfortunately, dental care is not a heavily subsidised area of care. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Edward Francis says:
05/06/2023 at 1:37

This is the first time I've been on this website, thanks for the information ? ?

stephen beech says:
01/07/2023 at 7:05

I am 65 & reach 66 end of July. Can I apply for my bus pass now or do I have to wait until reaching 66?

LifeConnect24 says:
03/07/2023 at 7:15

Hello Stephen, Thank you for your comment. It is our understanding that you must be at State Pension age before you apply. We would advise waiting until you have turned 66 to apply. We hope you have a pleasant birthday. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Claire says:
06/08/2023 at 6:23

I was really enjoying reading this thread until you referred to older people or seniors as ā€˜elderlyā€™. These days many older people have to continue working until at least 67 (my current state pension age). As a fit and healthy 60+ clinical nurse specialist in a busy London teaching hospital, Iā€™m not sure Iā€™m exactly delighted about being referred to as ā€˜elderlyā€™. I have also been referred to as an ā€˜Old Age Pensionerā€™ (printed on the bus ticket) when I took advantage of a discounted (for 60+) sightseeing bus trip in Eastbourne recently. I was horrified as I didnā€™t consider myself to be particularly old and I wasnā€™t a pensioner.

LifeConnect24 says:
07/08/2023 at 7:28

Hello Claire. Thank you for your comment and your feedback. We endeavour to be as sensitive as possible in our articles and apologise if you found the term "elderly" distasteful. It is true that we are only ever as old as we feel. In future, we will take care to use different terminology so as not to cause offence. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Hazra says:
11/01/2024 at 11:21

Do get a discount on local bus fares when you have just turned 60 years old

LifeConnect24 says:
11/01/2024 at 3:19

Hello Hazra, Thank you for your comment. The rules around bus fares for over-60s vary according to the local authority. London and Wales provide free travel for over-60s, but elsewhere bus passes are available once you reach pension age. Currently, this is the only way for over-60s to receive discounted travel on buses. Some bus services, however, do offer discounted tickets at specified times. We recommend checking with your local authority and/or local bus operators to see what offers are available in your area. We hope this has helped. Kind regards, LifeConnect24

Paul little says:
25/01/2024 at 8:47

Just a general comment Worth checking out gym clubs a lot of them do consensions for over 65 But restricted times sometimes only 9 am to 4 pm But worth checking out

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