People nearing state pension age have been warned to be aware of certain crucial support that may stop
The state pension age does far more than simply determine when you can begin claiming your state pension. It can make you eligible for certain new benefits and support designed for older people and retirees, whilst simultaneously removing access to a range of other benefits.
This can prove incredibly problematic for people who depend on DWP support if they’re unaware they’ll be losing these funds. There are some alternatives available to claim beyond state pension age, but you’ll need to be proactive in applying to ensure you aren’t left out of pocket when you reach 66.
Benefits that cease at state pension age:
- Universal Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- New PIP claims
Ed Gallois, Managing Director of Funeral Guide, observed that many people simply don’t realise that these benefits will be “stopping overnight” and are left missing out on crucial support.
He said: “We regularly see people missing out on thousands because they simply don’t realise what changes overnight at State Pension age. The system isn’t easy to navigate. You have to ask the right questions, and sadly, too many people only discover the changes when their income suddenly drops.”
Certain benefits like PIP do have equivalents for people over the state pension age, such as Attendance Allowance. Pension Credit can also replace Universal Credit.
There’s a variety of benefits exclusively accessible to people over the state pension age that can help bridge the gap left by other benefits that cease at 66. These include Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Winter Fuel Payment, free NHS prescriptions, senior railcards and 60+ oyster cards.
Gallois added: “As living costs rise, knowing your rights is a lifeline, not a luxury. Even small top-ups or discounts can make the difference between just scraping by and having a little breathing space. Covering day-to-day bills, planning for care needs, and even considering funeral costs, it can all feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to understand what support is available.
“The more secure you feel now, the more peace of mind you and your loved ones can have later. Many of these alternative benefits require proactive applications, so planning ahead is vital.”
It’s also worth highlighting that the state pension age is set for a change beginning next year as the government plans to raise it to 67 by 2028. This will also raise the cut-off and starting age for the relevant benefits.