There are plenty of perks, discounts and freebies available for state pensioners - but one financial expert has highlighted that you don't actually need to be retired yet to take advantage of many of the benefits available to older people.
Money Magpie expert Vicky Parry explained that there are at least nine discounts, freebies and handouts that anyone over 60 can claim, even if they're still in employment and haven't yet retired or drawn a pension.
Some come in the form of reduced prices on bookings, while others are straightforward freebies based solely on a person's age. The state pension age currently stands at 66 and is set to rise to 67, yet these discounts and handouts for older people can be claimed well before that threshold is reached, reports the Express.
Free bus pass
Different areas of the UK have different rules when it comes to free bus travel. While over-60s in the rest of England must wait until State Pension age to get a free bus pass, one notable exception applies to Londoners, who are able to apply for a free bus pass from the age of 60.
The pass previously allowed free travel at any time of day, however, it is now restricted to off-peak travel only in most areas. It is generally recommended that you check your local authority website before setting off (if you hold a Disabled Person's Bus Pass, you are still entitled to travel at any time).
Off-peak travel covers any time between 9am and 11pm Monday to Friday and all day at weekends.
Coach discounts
Over 60s in England and Wales can purchase a Senior Coachcard for £15 (plus £3 P&P) for a third off all National Express coach fares. Additional savings are also on offer, with £15 anywhere returns available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays when booked three or more days in advance.
You can also receive 15 per cent off the price of an adult Fully Flexible fare.
Train discounts
A Senior Railcard costs £30 per year (or £70 for three years). It offers savings across a wide range of tickets, including many First Class, Standard, Advance tickets and off-peak bookings - with the exception of journeys made during morning peak-time in London and the South East/Network Rail area.
It is always advisable to check with the service provider regarding Railcard restrictions prior to booking, as exemptions can and do vary from route to route and at different times. A Senior Railcard can be purchased online, at any staffed National Rail ticket office, or by calling 0345 3000 250.
Tube travel Oyster card
Those aged 60 and over are eligible for a 60+ London Oyster Photocard, which allows free travel on TfL services from 9am on weekdays and at any time during weekends and bank holidays. This is particularly handy for London residents, though it can also be worth it for those just visiting the capital.
Food
For those over 60, a good number of restaurants and cafés offer early dinner discounts. Dobbies Garden Centres provide over-60s with a main meal and a cake for just £12, available Monday to Friday between 12pm and 3pm.
Every Tuesday, shoppers aged 60 and above can enjoy 10 per cent off their groceries, with no minimum spend required, at both Iceland and The Food Warehouse.
Theatre and cinema discounts
Most local cinemas and theatres offer concessionary rates for over-60s. It's also worth hunting out cheaper cinema tickets. Many cinemas host 'silver screen' matinée showings — for instance, ODEON Silver Screen tickets are priced at just £2 and include complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits before the film.
The best starting point for these discounts is to go directly to the theatre or cinema. The National Theatre offers £20 off midweek matinées for the over-60s, while The Royal Shakespeare Company has a 20 percent discount available for the over-65s on all seats for Monday and Tuesday evening performances and all midweek matinées.
Specsavers and Boots
If you're aged 60 or over and purchase a pair of glasses from Specsavers priced at £70 or above, you'll receive a 20 per cent discount. The offer covers frames, lenses and any Extra Options such as coatings to protect your lenses or provide sun protection.
Meanwhile, Boots the chemist operates an Over 60s rewards programme that awards double Advantage Card points. The scheme also includes perks such as prize draws, and you'll earn additional points at Boots Hearingcare.
