How to boost your income in retirement

We should all be able to enjoy our retirement. But if you're finding it difficult to make ends meet, we've brought together information and advice to help you make your money go further.

Get a benefits check

Every year, billions of pounds worth of benefits go unclaimed by older people. Even if you think you're getting everything you're entitled to, it's always worth a check. Some extra money could help you pay for things like care services or energy bills, or it could support you in maintaining your independence. 

We have information and advice on a range of benefits, such as Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and Carer's Allowance.

Find out more about what benefits are available to support you

Clear your debts

Not all debt is a problem – but whatever you owe, it can be a worry. If your debt is weighing on your mind or negatively affecting your life, it's important to take steps to tackle it.

There are lots of organisations that can help you get back in control. Many offer free advice and can help you create a personalised plan to become debt-free.

Find out more about how to deal with debt

Trace lost money

You may have money stored away in lost or dormant bank accounts, insurance policies, pensions or premium bonds – especially if you've changed your name or address several times. If you think this applies to you, it's definitely worth looking into – it's free and easy to check.

Find out more about how to trace lost money

Cut your household costs

There are lots of ways you may be able to cut your household costs and save money as you get older. 

Council Tax

Council Tax is a property-based tax that's paid to your local authority to help them pay for services like rubbish collection and road maintenance. Regardless of your financial circumstances, you might be eligible to a discount to the amount of Council Tax you pay – or you may even be exempt.

Find out more about how you can reduce your Council Tax bill

Household bills

There are lots of ways you could cut down on your household bills – from small changes to reduce the amount of energy your household uses to support from the government to help you pay your bills.

Find out more about ways you can save money on your energy bills

Talk to Age UK

Call our free Advice Line on 0800 678 1602 to get advice from a trainer advisor on claiming benefits, or any of the other topics discussed on this page. You can also call the Advice Line to order any of our free information guides.

If you'd prefer to speak to someone face to face, you could pop along to your local Age UK to chat with a friendly advisor.