Top Money Saving Tips for Over 60's

The cost of living in the UK has risen sharply in recent years, with inflation pushing up the price of everyday essentials, from groceries to utility bills. For older adults, especially those on fixed incomes such as pensions, these increases can be particularly challenging. Many over-60s find themselves having to make careful decisions about how and where to spend their money — often balancing the need to stay warm and healthy with the desire to maintain independence and quality of life.

The Rising Cost of Living and the Energy Crisis

Energy prices in particular have placed additional strain on household finances. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average energy bill in 2023 increased by over 50% compared to two years prior, despite the Energy Price Guarantee offering some relief for vulnerable households. For retirees who may spend more time at home, especially during the colder months, these higher energy costs can be a major burden (ONS, 2023).

How Older Adults Are Disproportionately Affected

Many over-60s rely on state pensions or limited retirement savings, which often don’t rise in line with inflation. For those not claiming additional benefits — and it’s estimated that over £1.7 billion in Pension Credit alone goes unclaimed each year (Independent Age) — the financial squeeze is even tighter. Reduced mobility or access to transportation can also limit opportunities to shop around for deals, attend community events or access energy-saving support schemes.

Additionally, age-related health concerns may require heating the home more consistently, using more electricity for medical equipment, or spending more on specialised food and care. These increased expenses, paired with a steady or diminishing income, mean that even small financial pressures can have a significant impact.

The Importance of Financial Planning and Small Savings Adding Up

In later life, budgeting and forward planning are essential. But it’s not always about making drastic lifestyle changes — small savings, made consistently, can make a meaningful difference over time. Whether it’s saving a few pounds on the weekly shop, trimming energy bills, or finding affordable leisure options, being savvy with money can free up room in the budget for the things that matter most — whether that’s family, hobbies, or a little extra comfort.

Even more empowering is the idea that saving money doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour. With the right tools and community, over-60s can access opportunities that not only help them stretch their finances, but also create a positive ripple effect beyond their household.

Our Passion for Helping People Save — and Give Back

Here at My Favourite Voucher Codes, we understand the real-life pressures our older users face, and we’re passionate about making it easier to save without sacrificing quality or joy. Our mission goes beyond just helping you find a good deal. Every voucher code used on our site supports a larger purpose — 20% of our profits go to charity, and our users vote on where that money goes each month.

That means every time you use one of our codes, you’re not only saving money — you’re helping someone else too. Whether it’s supporting mental health services, food banks, or animal charities, small savings made through our platform can add up to meaningful change.

Maximise Benefits and Support Schemes

Navigating the array of benefits and support schemes available to individuals over 60 can significantly enhance financial well-being. Understanding and accessing these resources can help manage living expenses more effectively.

1. Maximise Benefits and Support Schemes

Several key benefits are designed to assist older adults in the UK:

Pension Credit

Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit aimed at supplementing the income of individuals who have reached State Pension age and have a low income. It comprises two parts:

• Guarantee Credit: This tops up your weekly income to a minimum level.

• Savings Credit: An additional payment for those who have saved towards their retirement; however, it's only available to individuals who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must reside in England, Scotland, or Wales.

• Have reached State Pension age.

• Meet income and savings thresholds.

How to Apply:

• Online: Visit the GOV.UK – Pension Credit page.

• Phone: Call the Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234.

• Post: Download and complete the application form from the GOV.UK website and send it to the provided address.

For a comprehensive assessment of your eligibility, use the Age UK Benefits Calculator.

Winter Fuel Payment

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free payment to help with heating costs during the colder months.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Born before 23 September 1958.

• Reside in the UK during the qualifying week, typically the third week of September.

• Receive certain benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Income Support.

Payment Amounts:

• Between £200 and £300, depending on age and circumstances.

How to Apply:

• Most eligible individuals receive this payment automatically.

• If you believe you're eligible but haven't received it, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Centre.

Detailed information is available on the GOV.UK – Winter Fuel Payment page.

Warm Home Discount Scheme

The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a one-off discount on electricity bills for eligible individuals.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit.

• Alternatively, be on a low income and meet your energy supplier's criteria.

How to Apply:

• In England and Wales, eligible individuals usually receive the discount automatically.

• In Scotland, contact your energy supplier directly to apply.

For more details, visit the GOV.UK – Warm Home Discount Scheme.

By exploring and applying for these benefits, you can significantly reduce your living expenses and enhance your financial stability during retirement.

Reducing energy bills is a priority for many, especially during colder months. Implementing simple, cost-effective home adjustments can lead to significant savings. Here are some practical strategies to enhance your home's energy efficiency:

2. Slash Your Energy Bills with Simple Home Tweaks

Draught-Proof Your Home

Unwanted gaps around doors and windows can lead to substantial heat loss, causing your heating system to work harder and increasing energy costs. Sealing these draughts is a straightforward and affordable way to improve your home's warmth.

Action Steps:

• Install Draught Excluders: Place these at the base of doors to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.

• Use Self-Adhesive Strips: Apply these around window frames to seal gaps effectively.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, professional draught-proofing of windows and doors can save around £20 per year on energy bills. citeturn0news0

Install Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)

TRVs allow you to control the temperature of individual radiators, enabling you to heat rooms only when necessary. This targeted heating approach enhances comfort and reduces energy consumption.

Benefits:

• Energy Efficiency: By adjusting the heat output in each room, you avoid overheating unused spaces.

• Cost Savings: Proper use of TRVs can lead to significant reductions in heating bills.

A plumber cited by The Scottish Sun suggests that understanding and correctly using TRVs can save up to £180 annually on energy bills. citeturn0news3

Bleed Your Radiators

Air trapped in radiators can create cold spots, reducing their efficiency and making your heating system work harder. Bleeding your radiators releases this trapped air, allowing them to heat more effectively.

How to Bleed a Radiator:

1. Turn Off Your Heating: Ensure the system is off and the radiators are cool.

2. Locate the Bleed Valve: This is typically at the top corner of the radiator.

3. Use a Radiator Key: Turn the valve slowly counter-clockwise until you hear a hissing sound as air escapes.

4. Close the Valve: Once water begins to trickle out, close the valve tightly.

Regularly bleeding your radiators ensures they operate at peak efficiency, contributing to a warmer home and lower energy bills.

Rearrange Furniture for Optimal Heat Flow

The placement of furniture can impact the effectiveness of your heating system. Obstructing radiators with large items like sofas or curtains can block heat distribution, causing your heating system to work harder.

Tips:

• Move Furniture Away from Radiators: Ensure that radiators are not blocked to allow heat to circulate freely.

• Avoid Drying Clothes on Radiators: This practice can increase energy consumption and reduce heating efficiency.

An article from The Scottish Sun highlights that drying clothes on radiators can add approximately £60 to annual energy bills due to increased heating time.

Implementing these simple home adjustments can lead to noticeable reductions in your energy bills, enhancing both comfort and cost-efficiency during the colder months.

---

Make the Most of Age-Related Discounts

One of the real perks of turning 60 is access to a range of age-related discounts that make everyday experiences more affordable — from travel and retail to leisure and dining out. These small savings can really add up over time, especially when paired with voucher codes and special promotions available on our site.

Here’s how to make the most of the offers available to you.

---

Travel and Transport Savings

Being over 60 opens the door to a range of discounted travel schemes, helping you stay mobile without straining your budget.

• Senior Railcard – Save a third on train fares across the UK. At £30 per year, it quickly pays for itself. You can also get a digital version to use on your phone.
  Learn more here

• National Express Senior Coach card – For £15 per year, enjoy a third off standard coach fares across the UK.
   Visit National Express

• Free Bus Travel – In Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, residents over 60 are eligible for a free bus pass. In England, eligibility starts at State Pension age.
  Check eligibility on GOV.UK

---

Retail and Shopping Offers

Many high street names offer discreet discounts to older shoppers — some of which are applied automatically or during special events.

• Boots Over 60s Rewards – The Boots Advantage Card offers extra points on health and wellness products for over-60s, including 8 points per £1 on Boots-branded health items.
  More info here

• Superdrug Health & Beautycard – Offers special discounts, bonus points and exclusive deals. While not age-specific, many promotions cater to older shoppers looking for health and wellbeing products.
  Sign up here

• Specsavers Over 60s Offers – Get 20% off glasses and lenses if you’re over 60, plus access to free NHS-funded eye tests.
  Specsavers discount info

---

Dining Out and Entertainment

• National Trust & English Heritage Membership – Both organisations offer discounted annual memberships for those aged 60+, allowing unlimited access to parks, gardens, and heritage sites.

  National Trust Seniors Membership
  English Heritage Concessions

• Cinema Discounts – Most major cinema chains (including Odeon and Vue) offer discounted tickets or Silver Screen programmes for those over 60, typically during daytime showings.

• Restaurants & Cafés – While fewer dining spots advertise senior-specific deals nowadays, many offer concessions during quiet periods or weekday lunchtimes — and this is where our voucher codes really come in handy.

---

Save Even More with Our Voucher Codes

While many of these discounts are automatic or part of a loyalty scheme, you can double your savings by using one of our voucher codes at checkout when shopping online or booking tickets.

Whether you're topping up your beauty essentials at Superdrug, treating yourself to a day out with the National Trust, or doing a weekly food shop, we offer updated codes from top UK retailers that can make your money go further.

But here’s where it gets even better: every time you use one of our codes, you’re not just saving money — you’re helping a charity in need. We donate 20% of our profits each month to a charity chosen by our community of users, meaning your smart spending also supports a good cause.

So, the next time you grab a bargain with one of our codes, know that you're not just stretching your budget — you're also making a difference. And that’s a deal we think is worth sharing.

---

4. Save on Groceries with Smarter Shopping

Weekly grocery shopping is a non-negotiable expense, but that doesn’t mean it needs to cost the earth. For those over 60, being strategic about how and where you shop can result in real savings — without sacrificing quality or convenience.

With food prices continuing to climb, the Office for National Statistics reported that the cost of staple items such as milk, bread, and cheese rose by as much as 25% in the 12 months to mid-2023 (ONS). That makes it more important than ever to shop smart and use every tool available to trim costs.

Here are a few practical ways to save money on your food shopping — many of which are quick to implement and easy to stick with.

---

Switch to Own-Brand Products

Supermarket own-brand products have improved dramatically in recent years, often offering similar quality to leading brands at a fraction of the cost. In many blind taste tests, shoppers have been unable to tell the difference — and the savings speak for themselves.

• Swapping branded products for supermarket own-label can cut your grocery bill by up to 30% (Which?).

• Many supermarkets also offer value or essentials ranges, which are even more budget-friendly.

This one simple switch can save an average household hundreds of pounds a year.

---

Shop in the Evenings for Markdowns

Most major supermarkets apply discounts to perishable items nearing their sell-by dates later in the day. These yellow-sticker markdowns can offer substantial savings, especially on meat, bread, fresh produce, and ready meals.

• The best time to shop for reductions varies by store, but typically falls between 5 pm and 8 pm, depending on closing hours.

• Some shoppers report saving over £50 a month by consistently shopping at the right time — without compromising on meal quality.

Don’t forget, these items are usually perfectly good to freeze or use within a day or two, making them ideal for batch cooking or topping up the freezer.

---

Use Voucher Codes and Cashback

Combining store discounts with online voucher codes and cashback tools is one of the smartest ways to stretch your budget.

Here’s how we can help:

• We regularly feature discount codes for top UK supermarkets and grocery delivery services, including Ocado, Iceland, Morrisons, and Tesco.

• You’ll also find voucher codes for popular food subscription boxes like HelloFresh, Gousto, and Mindful Chef — perfect if you enjoy home cooking with pre-measured ingredients and easy recipes.

• Many offers can be stacked with existing store promotions or cashback sites like TopCashback and DiscountPromoCodes for even more savings.

Whether you shop online or prefer to click and collect, our deals help you cut costs on your weekly essentials and occasional treats alike.

You can browse the latest grocery and food delivery vouchers on our Supermarket & Food Offers page.

---

Bonus Tip: Plan Your Meals and Use a Shopping List

Impulse buying is one of the biggest drains on a food budget. Planning meals for the week ahead and sticking to a shopping list can significantly reduce unnecessary purchases.

• Check what’s already in your cupboards and freezer before you go shopping.

• Base your meals around what’s on offer that week or which items you can pick up on markdown.

• Use free apps or printables to stay organised — some banks even offer budgeting tools within their mobile apps that can help track spending by category.

---

Save While Giving Back

It’s worth remembering that when you use one of our voucher codes to save on your grocery shop, you’re also helping others. We donate 20% of our profits each month to UK-based charities, chosen by our users through our monthly charity poll.

That means your smart choices at checkout go even further — saving you money and supporting great causes across the UK. Whether it’s a discount on your weekly shop or a deal on a food box subscription, every saving through us has the potential to make a difference.

---

5. Cut Prescription and Healthcare Costs

Good health is priceless — but that doesn’t mean staying healthy should come at a premium. For those over 60, the NHS provides several valuable benefits that help reduce the cost of essential medical care. Understanding what you’re entitled to can make a meaningful difference to your monthly budget, especially as healthcare needs often increase with age.

---

Free Prescriptions for Over-60s in England

One of the most well-known benefits is the entitlement to free NHS prescriptions in England once you turn 60. This means you won’t pay the standard prescription charge — currently £9.65 per item (as of 2024) — which can add up quickly for anyone on regular medication.

You’ll be automatically exempt from charges once you reach 60, so there's no need to apply. Simply inform the pharmacist of your age, and you’ll be asked to tick the appropriate exemption box on the back of the prescription form.

In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for everyone, regardless of age.

---

Free NHS Eye Tests for Over-60s

If you’re over 60, you’re also entitled to a free NHS eye test every two years, or more often if your optician recommends it for medical reasons. Regular eye tests are vital for detecting age-related conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

• Many opticians, including high street names like Specsavers and Boots, make it easy to book these appointments and will check your NHS eligibility at the time of booking.

• Some people may also qualify for optical vouchers to help with the cost of glasses or contact lenses, depending on income or benefits.

---

Dental Check-Ups and Support

While routine NHS dental care isn’t free for over-60s in England (unless you qualify for certain benefits), there are ways to reduce costs:

• NHS Dental Charges are banded, and the cost of a check-up (Band 1) is currently £25.80. Many dental surgeries offer payment plans or discounts for pensioners.

• If you’re on Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or other qualifying benefits, you may be entitled to free NHS dental treatment. It’s worth checking your status before paying.

---

Using Local Health Initiatives and Community Services

In addition to NHS entitlements, many local councils and charities run community health programmes aimed at older adults. These might include:

• Free health screenings (e.g. blood pressure or diabetes checks)

• Vaccination clinics for flu and pneumonia

• Falls prevention classes or physical activity groups

• Support groups for chronic conditions or mental health

Check with your local GP surgery, Age UK branch, or council website to see what’s available in your area.

---

Explore the NHS Low Income Scheme

If your income is modest but you don’t qualify for automatic benefits, the NHS Low Income Scheme may help with the cost of prescriptions, dental work, travel to medical appointments, and more.

• The scheme assesses your weekly income and essential outgoings, and you could receive either full help (an HC2 certificate) or partial help (an HC3 certificate).

• You can apply online or by post.

Learn more and apply here: NHS Help with Health Costs

---

Don’t Forget: Savings Through Us Can Support Health Charities Too

While some healthcare costs are unavoidable, using our voucher codes on health and wellness products — from vitamins and supplements to prescription glasses and mobility aids — can help stretch your budget further. Many retailers in our network offer special deals on health-related items, which you can access with just a few clicks.

And remember, when you save with us, 20% of our profits go to charity, and many of the causes we support focus directly on health and wellbeing — from mental health organisations to hospices and medical research charities. So, even as you look after your own health, you could be helping others do the same.

---

6. Use Public and Community Transport Schemes

Transport is more than just getting from A to B — it’s about staying connected, maintaining independence, and accessing essential services. For many people over 60, travel can become a financial burden, especially if you're no longer driving or trying to cut down on car use. The good news is there are several travel support schemes across the UK designed to make getting around more affordable and accessible.

---

Free Bus Passes for Over-60s

Whether you’re popping to the shops, visiting friends, or attending a doctor’s appointment, bus travel is often a lifeline — and in many parts of the UK, it’s free for those over 60.

Eligibility varies by location:

• Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland: Residents are eligible for a free bus pass from the age of 60. This provides unlimited free travel on local bus services and some community transport schemes.

• England: Free bus travel is available once you reach the female State Pension age (currently 66 for most people). You can apply through your local council.

You can check when you’ll become eligible and how to apply via the official GOV.UK site:
Apply for an older person’s bus pass

---

Discounted Travel Cards

If you're travelling longer distances or by train or coach, there are several travel cards designed specifically for older adults that offer substantial savings:

• Senior Railcard:
  Costs £30 for a year and gives you a third off rail fares across Britain. There’s also a digital version available for easy use via smartphone. If you travel regularly, this card often pays for itself after just a few journeys.
  More info at senior-railcard.co.uk

• National Express Senior Coachcard:
  For £15 a year, this card offers a third off standard coach fares. It’s ideal for trips to see family, attend events or get away for a short break without driving.
  Visit nationalexpress.com

• Local Authority Travel Schemes:
  Some councils offer additional transport support for older residents, including dial-a-ride services, subsidised taxis, or community minibus options — especially helpful in rural areas where public transport is limited.

---

Community Transport and Volunteer Services

If traditional public transport isn’t suitable or accessible, many charities and community groups offer alternative transport options for older adults.

Examples include:

• Age UK Community Transport:
  Many local Age UK branches operate car schemes or minibus services that provide door-to-door transport for shopping trips, medical appointments, or social activities. These services are typically run by volunteers and may have a small fee or donation suggested.
  Find your local branch: Age UK Local Services

• Royal Voluntary Service (RVS):
  The RVS runs community transport services in some regions, offering help with essential journeys for those who struggle with mobility or live in isolated areas.
  royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

• Local Good Neighbour Schemes:
  In many communities, churches, village halls, and local councils coordinate volunteer-run lifts or informal ride-sharing for older residents. Your local authority or Citizens Advice Bureau can advise on what's available near you.

---

Save on Travel Costs with Our Voucher Codes

While public and community transport offer huge savings, there are times you might still need a taxi, book a train online, or travel by coach. That’s where we can help. We regularly feature discount codes for rail tickets, coach travel, and even airport transfers — helping you cut costs on those essential and occasional longer journeys.

Better yet, every time you use one of our codes, 20% of our profits go to charity, chosen by our users each month. That means your journey doesn’t just take you where you need to go — it helps others get there too.

---

7. Reduce Heating Costs Without Feeling the Chill

Staying warm in winter is essential for both comfort and health, particularly for those over 60 who may be more vulnerable to the effects of cold temperatures. But with heating bills continuing to rise, it’s understandable to look for ways to stay warm without racking up high energy costs.

Thankfully, there are a number of practical, low-cost changes and government-supported schemes that can help you reduce heating expenses while keeping your home cosy.

---

Layer Up Smartly at Home

Before reaching for the thermostat, make sure you're dressed appropriately for the indoors.

• Thermal base layers, cosy socks, and warm slippers go a long way in trapping body heat.

• Keep a blanket or heated throw on hand for sitting areas — a one-off purchase that can significantly cut down how often you need to turn the heating on.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, turning your thermostat down by just one degree can save around £100 per year on your heating bill (Energy Saving Trust) — and dressing warmly makes that much easier to manage.

---

Use Heated Accessories, Not the Whole House

Heating the whole house when you're only using one or two rooms isn’t always the most efficient option. Electric blankets, hot water bottles, or heated throws use a fraction of the energy of central heating and can make a big difference.

• A heated throw can cost as little as 3p per hour to run — a major saving compared to central heating, which can cost £1.50–£2 per hour depending on your energy tariff.

---

Make Your Home More Heat Efficient

Improving insulation and sealing heat leaks is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy waste. While some home improvements may require an upfront cost, many small changes are affordable and easy to implement:

• Fit draught excluders to doors and letterboxes.

• Close curtains at dusk to keep warmth in (thermal-lined curtains are particularly effective).

• Block unused chimneys with a chimney balloon or draught excluder.

• Move furniture away from radiators so that heat can circulate freely.

---

Apply for Government Support and Grants

If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you may be eligible for help with heating and insulation improvements.

Key schemes include:

• The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): Offers insulation, boiler upgrades, and heating support for eligible households.
  Learn more at Simple Energy Advice

• Local Authority Delivery Scheme (LAD): A government-backed initiative for energy efficiency upgrades, often for older or less energy-efficient homes.

• Warm Home Discount: As mentioned earlier, this is a £150 rebate automatically applied to your electricity bill if you receive certain benefits or are on a low income.

Even if you don’t qualify for full grants, many local authorities run energy advice services, offering free home assessments and access to subsidised improvements.

---

Small Adjustments, Big Impact

Here are a few more quick wins to stay warm without bumping up your bill:

• Bleed radiators to ensure they’re heating efficiently.

• Use reflective radiator panels behind wall-mounted radiators to push heat back into the room.

• Keep internal doors closed to trap heat in commonly used areas.

• Use rugs on bare floors to reduce heat loss through the ground.

---

Save on Heating and Winter Essentials with Us

Through our platform, you’ll find voucher codes for energy-saving products like heated blankets, smart thermostats, draught excluders, and warm winter clothing — all from trusted UK retailers. You might even spot a discount on boiler cover or home heating oil, depending on seasonal promotions.

And, as always, remember that 20% of our profits go to charity when you use one of our voucher codes — so while you’re keeping your own home warm, you’re helping others stay safe and supported too.

---

8. Simplify Subscriptions and Memberships

Subscriptions can be silent budget-drainers — small monthly costs that often go unnoticed until they start to add up. Many people over 60 sign up for services during busier periods of life, only to find later on that they’re no longer needed, relevant, or used enough to justify the cost. Reviewing these regular outgoings is a simple but powerful way to regain control over your spending.

---

Audit What You’re Paying For

Start by looking at your bank statements from the past three months and listing every subscription or recurring payment.

This might include:

• TV streaming services (e.g. Netflix, NOW, Amazon Prime)

• Digital magazines or newspapers

• Music services like Spotify

• Cloud storage or app subscriptions

• Memberships to clubs, gyms or societies

Once you’ve listed everything, ask yourself:

• Do I still use this regularly?

• Is there a free or cheaper alternative?

• Can I pause or cancel it without penalty?

Even cancelling just two unused subscriptions could save you over £20–£30 per month — that’s £300+ a year back in your pocket.

---

Look for Free Alternatives or Shared Plans

You don’t always have to go without — often, there are equally good (or better) alternatives at no cost:

• Use Freeview or BBC iPlayer instead of paid streaming services.

• Switch to free digital newspapers or your local library’s online lending platform.

• Look into family or household plans, which allow multiple users to share an account at a lower combined cost.

Many banks also now include extras like streaming subscriptions or mobile insurance in their premium account packages — it’s worth checking if you’re already covered elsewhere before continuing to pay twice.

---

Switch to Pay-As-You-Go Where Possible

If you belong to a gym or social club but only go once or twice a month, switching to a pay-as-you-go plan might be more cost-effective. Likewise, some services offer flexible membership levels or seasonal rates, which can help reduce unnecessary charges during quieter periods.

The same applies to digital services — for example, you might pause or downgrade your streaming subscriptions during the summer months when you’re spending more time outdoors.

---

Make the Most of Discount Codes on Essential Services

Some subscriptions are genuinely useful and bring value to your daily life — from health apps and online courses to digital entertainment or book clubs. If that’s the case, look for ways to save before you renew.

We often feature voucher codes for subscription services like Audible, Amazon Prime, and specialist magazines or wellness platforms. You may also find introductory offers on services such as language learning, fitness apps, or curated monthly deliveries.

Using a discount code for a 3- or 6-month subscription deal is a smart way to enjoy these services at a fraction of the cost — especially if you’re just trying something out.

---

Let Your Savings Go Further

Trimming back on unused subscriptions doesn’t just save you money — it gives you more room in your budget for the things that truly matter. Whether it’s putting aside a little extra for holidays, gifts, or hobbies, small changes in this area can free up financial breathing space without any sacrifice.

And, as always, when you use one of our discount codes to save on a new subscription or service, you’re also supporting a charity of your choice through our monthly giving scheme. So while you’re decluttering your finances, you’re also helping someone else access the support they need.

---

9. Budget Like a Pro – Even in Retirement

Getting to grips with budgeting can feel a bit daunting at first, especially if you're living on a fixed income. But having a clear picture of your finances is empowering — and often the key to making your money stretch further. For those over 60, budgeting isn’t about cutting back on everything you enjoy. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that give you control, freedom, and confidence in your financial wellbeing.

---

Know What’s Coming In — and Going Out

The first step to smarter budgeting is understanding your income and outgoings in detail. That includes:

• Pension income (state and private)

• Any benefits or entitlements

• Interest from savings or investments

• Regular bills (utilities, insurance, rent/mortgage)

• Variable costs (food, travel, entertainment)

You don’t need to use fancy software — a notepad, spreadsheet, or free online tool will do the trick. The MoneyHelper Budget Planner is an excellent UK-based tool designed for all age groups, including retirees.

---

Plan Monthly — But Think Seasonally

Costs can vary dramatically throughout the year. Heating and energy bills spike in the winter. Travel and outings may increase in the warmer months. One-off expenses like birthdays, insurance renewals, or Christmas shopping can throw off an otherwise balanced budget if not anticipated.

By thinking ahead and building a small buffer for those seasonal expenses, you can avoid financial stress and keep your monthly plan on track.

---

Set Realistic Goals — Even If They’re Modest

You don’t need to aim for big savings each month. A realistic and sustainable goal might be:

• Saving £25 per month into an emergency fund

• Putting aside a small amount for a family gift or future trip

• Allocating £10 a month for hobbies or leisure

The key is to be consistent. Over time, even modest savings build financial resilience — and allow for more spontaneity down the line.

---

Track Small, Regular Spending

It’s often the smaller, frequent purchases that quietly eat into your budget — a daily newspaper, café coffee, or impulse item at the supermarket. These aren’t things to eliminate entirely, but tracking them helps you decide where they fit into your priorities.

Some banks offer mobile apps with spending breakdowns by category, or you can simply keep a handwritten log for a week to see where your money is going.

---

Use Offers to Make Budgeting Easier

A good budget includes the things that make life enjoyable — whether that’s treating yourself to a nice meal out, getting stuck into a good book, or buying a thoughtful gift for someone special. The trick is to enjoy those moments in a way that aligns with your financial plan.

We help make that possible by offering discount codes across a wide range of everyday retailers, from groceries and fashion to entertainment and home essentials. That way, you can stick to your budget without sacrificing the things you value.

And, as with every saving made through us, 20% of our profits go to charity, meaning your smart budgeting can help others manage life’s challenges too.

---

10. Give Back While You Save – The Power of Charitable Shopping

At a stage of life where many people start reflecting on what truly matters, finding ways to support others can be just as rewarding as saving money. The good news is, with a little intention, it’s entirely possible to do both — spending wisely while making a difference.

That’s where charitable shopping comes in. By choosing where and how you shop, you can support the causes you care about without spending a penny more than you need to. In fact, you may end up spending less.

---

What Is Charitable Shopping?

Charitable shopping is the simple act of purchasing goods or services in a way that contributes to a charity or non-profit. This can be done in a few ways:

• Buying from retailers who donate a portion of sales to charity

• Shopping via charity-run online shops (like the British Heart Foundation or Oxfam)

• Using platforms like ours that blend savings with giving

It’s a low-effort, high-impact way to support others — and increasingly popular with savvy shoppers who want their money to go further than just their own basket.

---

How We Make It Easy to Save and Support Good Causes

Here at My Favourite Voucher Codes, charitable shopping is built into everything we do. Every time someone uses one of our voucher codes, we donate 20% of our profits to charity — and our users help decide where that money goes.

Here’s how it works:

• We feature a monthly charity poll on our website with three shortlisted UK charities.

• Our users vote for the cause they’d most like to support.

• At the end of the month, 20% of our profits are donated to the winning charity.

Over the years, we’ve donated more than £767,929 to a wide variety of charities — from national organisations like Mind and SPANA to smaller, local groups making a difference in their communities.

So, whether you're using a discount on a food delivery box, saving on your winter heating bill, or grabbing a deal on a new pair of shoes — you're helping someone else, simply by saving money.

You can learn more about how our donations work on our About Us page.

---

Make Your Money Work Harder – For You and Others

The beauty of this model is that you don’t have to choose between being budget-conscious and socially conscious. Every voucher code you redeem helps you reduce your personal costs and fuels the work of organisations doing vital good — whether that’s offering mental health support, helping families in crisis, or caring for animals in need.

And because the charities are chosen by our community, you know your vote is shaping where our support goes.

In short: you save, we donate, and together we make a difference.

---

Bringing It All Together: Small Changes, Meaningful Impact

Navigating life after 60 comes with its own set of financial challenges — but also with opportunities to take control, simplify, and save in ways that truly make a difference. From unlocking unclaimed benefits to making your home more energy efficient, each small change adds up. And when you combine these smart habits with thoughtful shopping — such as using voucher codes on the essentials — your money not only goes further, it also does more good.

At this stage of life, financial peace of mind isn’t about doing without. It’s about being resourceful, staying informed, and embracing tools that support your independence. We’re here to help with that — offering savings that fit into your lifestyle, and a charitable model that makes every code count.

So whether you’re budgeting for everyday living, planning for the future, or just making your pension stretch a little further, these tips are here to help you live well — and give back — every step of the way.

---

by Julian House 31th March 2025

---