Change in age eligibility in England

The Government has announced changes to the age at which people become eligible for concessionary travel in England.

Here are some questions and answers about the changes:

Q   How will the change in eligibility for concessionary travel announced by the Government affect the date on which I qualify for a travel concession?

A   The age of eligibility for concessionary travel will change in line with those changes being made to equalise eligibility for state pension benefits from April 2010. As the pensionable age for women increases from 60 to 65 over the next 10 year period, 2010 to 2020, so too will the age of eligibility for concessionary travel for both men and women. Anyone born after 5 April 1955 will not be eligible for concessionary travel until they reach the age of 65.

Q   How can I work out when I can apply for concessionary travel?

A   Follow this link to the Direct Gov pension age calculator. When working out the date of eligibility for concessionary travel you should select the female gender in all cases, regardless of actual gender. Please note that if you are male this date only relates to eligibility for concessionary travel and not pension entitlement.

Q   Will the change in age eligibility affect current pass holders?

A   These changes will not affect anyone already in possession of a concessionary pass, only those due to turn 60 on or after 6 April 2010.

 

If you want to know more please contact your local concessionary pass issuing authority.