The UK state pension age is set to rise from next year, impacting millions of Brits who are nearing retirement. Currently, men and women can start claiming their state pension at 66, but this will begin increasing from April next year. The transition will continue until March 2028, when the state pension age reaches 67. Further increases to 68 are also planned, but the exact timeline is still under review.
If you were born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, you will now have to wait until 67 to claim your state pension. This means working one year longer than those born before this period. The UK government has gradually phased in these changes through legislation passed in 2014, ensuring that increases happen over time rather than on a fixed date.
State Pension Age Increases: What You Need to Know
The state pension age has undergone several changes over the years. The last increase, which raised the age from 65 to 66, took place between December 2018 and October 2020. The next major rise to 67 will start in April 2026 and be fully implemented by March 2028.
A further increase to 68 is planned for 2044-2046, but reviews suggest it could be brought forward. The 2017 review recommended shifting it to 2037-2039, affecting those born between April 6, 1970, and April 5, 1978. The 2022 review suggested a slower approach, moving it to 2041-2043, with a possible increase to 69 between 2046 and 2048.
Who Will Be Affected by the Changes?
- If you were born before March 6, 1961, you can still claim your pension at 66.
- If you were born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, your state pension age will be 67.
- If you were born after April 1977, you may have to wait until 68 or later, depending on future government reviews.
These changes make it essential for people approaching retirement to plan their finances accordingly. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will notify those affected over the coming months.
How to Check Your State Pension Age
You can check your exact state pension age using the official GOV.UK online website. This website provides information about:
- When you will reach state pension age
- When you qualify for Pension Credit
- When you become eligible for free bus travel (in Scotland, this is at 60)
State Pension Payments to Increase in April
From April this year, the state pension will increase, providing some financial relief to retirees. There are two types of state pensions in the UK:
- The Old Basic State Pension – For men born before April 6, 1951, and women born before April 6, 1953
- The New State Pension – For men born on or after April 6, 1951, and women born on or after April 6, 1953
The increase will be as follows:
- Old Basic State Pension: £169.50 → £176.45 per week
- New Full State Pension: £221.20 → £230.30 per week
This means an annual increase of £474.85, with payments rising from £11,541.90 to £12,016.75 per year.
Why the State Pension Rises Every Year
The state pension increases each year under the Triple Lock policy, which ensures that payments rise based on the highest of:
- Inflation (based on the previous September’s figure)
- Wage growth (average increase between May and July)
- 2.5% minimum increase
This means pensions will continue to increase as long as the Triple Lock policy remains in place.
What Happens Next?
The government reviews the state pension age every five years, meaning further changes are possible. The next review will take place under the new Labour government, which could bring adjustments to the current plans.
With retirement age increasing, it’s crucial to stay informed and plan your finances early. Use the GOV.UK pension age checker to see when you can claim your pension and what other benefits you may be entitled to.
