Over 60s face free bus pass due to state pension change

In England, eligibility for the free bus pass is aligned with the UK’s state pension age which is currently 66. This freebie benefit was created to support older people and relieve them off their travel expenses. However, potential changes to the state pension age could see over 60s wait longer for this vital assistance.Under existing Government legislation, the state pension age threshold is set to increase to 67 years old.This change is due to be implemented by 2028 and will rise further to 68 between 2044 and 2046.The Government is informing the British public of this change ahead of time to make them aware of when they will receive their retirement payments.As part of the state pension, those who claim it become entitled to various other freebie benefits, which include the free bus pass.READ MORE: 70 health conditions qualify for extra £156 a week in PIP from DWP Over 60s face losing free bus pass due to state pension age change (Image: GETTY)Financial experts are warning that the promised state pension age changes could hurt those worse-off in society.The UK is in the midst of a cost of living crisis, which is exponentially hurting the nation’s elderly.Tom Selby, head of retirement policy at AJ Bell, outlined how pensioners face being pushed into even greater poverty.Mr Selby explained: ‘For those on very low incomes, increasing the state pension age by just a year can be enough to push people into serious financial turmoil.DON’T MISSState pension sum may be less if you were ‘contracted out’ – check now [WARNING]What the falling pound will mean for YOUR finances [ALERT]Single mum on Universal Credit shares her top tips for saving money [INSIGHT]450,000 people may be placed on energy prepayment meters [ALERT]’And while there are ways to replace at least part of this lost income – either via in-work benefits, from your private pension pot or by working longer – the evidence suggests lots of people are either unable or unwilling to go down this road.’As a result, millions of people saw their state pension income plummet by £142 per week on average, or over £7,000 during the year.’Even taking into account increases in private income, on average net income plummeted by £108 per week.’For anyone already struggling to make ends meet, missing out on thousands of pounds in pension income will inevitably force them into making painful budgeting choices in order to survive.’READ MORE: Paramedic shares how she dishes up tasty meals costing 68p per portion Who is eligible for the pass? (Image: EXPRESS.CO.UK)Anyone looking to claim this support can log onto the Government’s website to find their local authority’s contact details.Applications for the free bus pass can be carried out through a state pensioner’s local council.Alternative rules regarding bus discounts and concessions apply depending on which country in the UK you are living in.For example, young people in Scotland are entitled to free bus travel if they have a new National Entitlement Card (NEC).