State pensioners could wait longer for free bus pass but 10 groups get it free

Pensioners look forward to receiving their free bus passes to help them meet the cost of living. But, current Government proposals suggest that the state pension age will be raised to 67 and then 68, meaning people will be left waiting longer for this benefit.

Currently pensioners in England are entitled to the “freebie” when they turn 66 years old, however, this could be pushed back.

People only have to wait until they are 60 in Wales and Scotland to get the benefit.

It is not just pensioners who can receive a free bus pass, there are other groups that qualify.

This includes:

• People who cannot walk long distances due to a disability, injury or illness
• Individuals who are diagnosed as blind, partially sighted, deaf or unable to speak
• Those who do not have arms or are unable to use their arms
• Anyone with a learning disability which is severe
• People who have been refused a driving licence due to their health
• Jobseekers who are on Universal Credit may be able to get half price bus and train travel
• Under 18s if they live in Scotland
• Over 60s in Scotland and Wales
• Those 66 and over in England.
• Families and young people in Kent.

Britons may be able to benefit from free travel discounts before they reach state pension age depending on where they live.

While older Britons who are not on state pension could be eligible for a free bus pass if they are part of one of the aforementioned groups, there are other concessions available through other travel means.

The older age group is the most likely to be losing out on financial help according to Age UK.

On its website, Age UK shares advice to older people who are looking for ways to save money on their bus travel.

While inflationary figures are expected to exceed 13 percent by the end of the year as energy prices take another leap.

The Government’s additional support schemes are in place with the aim to help soften the blow.

The cost of living payments include:

• The main cost of living payment, worth £650
• A £150 disability cost of living payment
• £400 energy bill discount
• £300 added to the Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners.

Over 7.2 million families have already received the first half of the main £650 cost of living payment over the summer, while the disability, energy, and pensioner payments will be distributed in September, October, and November respectively.