The UK government has confirmed a significant change to retirement planning, the State Pension age is officially increasing from 66 to 67 starting next year, with full implementation expected by 2028. This update affects millions of future retirees across the country. Understanding when and how these changes apply is essential if you’re planning for your later years, especially with further reviews and increases on the horizon.
Overview of the State Pension Age Increase
The State Pension is a vital part of retirement income for most UK citizens. Currently, you can start claiming your State Pension at 66 years of age, but this is set to gradually rise to 67 over the next few years.
This change follows legislation passed in the Pensions Act 2014, which aimed to align pension ages more closely with life expectancy. The long-term government plan includes another future increase to 68 between 2044 and 2046, although this may be reviewed and brought forward depending on demographic and economic conditions.
Timeline of State Pension Age Changes
| Date Range | Change | Who is Affected |
|---|---|---|
| From 2026 | State Pension age begins to increase from 66 to 67 | People born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977 |
| By 2028 | Full implementation of age 67 | All UK citizens reaching pension age after this year |
| 2044–2046 (planned) | Further increase to age 68 | Yet to be reviewed; may affect those born after 1977 |
Check your personal State Pension age here: GOV.UK – Check State Pension age
Why Is the State Pension Age Increasing?
The UK’s increasing life expectancy means people are spending more years in retirement. To ensure the sustainability of the pension system, the government is adjusting the eligibility age so that the working population can continue to support retirees.
Under the Pensions Act 2014, the government committed to conducting a review of the State Pension age at least once every five years. The reviews assess whether the balance is right between time spent in work and retirement.
In a previous review, it was recommended that the move to 68 could be brought forward to the late 2030s, although this has not been formally legislated.
Read more about the Pensions Act 2014: UK Parliament – Pensions Act 2014
Impact on Retirement Planning
The shift to age 67 will affect those born between March 1961 and April 1977. It is crucial for individuals within this age bracket to reassess their retirement timeline, savings goals, and pension contributions.
Those who have built their plans around retiring at 66 may need to work an additional year, unless they have made alternative financial arrangements.
How to Find Your Retirement Age
The UK government offers an easy-to-use State Pension age calculator on the GOV.UK website. This tool lets you input your date of birth and gender to find your exact eligibility date.
Can You Increase Your State Pension?
Yes, it’s possible to boost your State Pension amount by ensuring you have enough National Insurance (NI) contributions. To receive the full new State Pension, you need at least 35 qualifying years of NI contributions. A minimum of 10 qualifying years is required to receive anything at all.
Ways to Increase Your Pension:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Voluntary NI Contributions | Pay for missing years to fill gaps in your NI record |
| NI Credits | Automatically granted in cases like unemployment, illness, maternity, or caring |
| Deferring Your Pension | Delay claiming to receive a higher weekly amount later |
Check your NI record and forecast here: GOV.UK – Check NI Record
State Pension Forecast Tool: GOV.UK – Forecast Your Pension
Voluntary Contributions – Is It Worth It?
According to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), over 10,000 people have made more than £12.5 million in voluntary contributions to top up their pensions. But making these payments should be a well-informed decision.
Personal finance experts, such as Alice Haine, recommend that individuals use the State Pension forecast tool and seek financial advice if unsure. You don’t want to overpay for years you won’t benefit from.
If you have fewer than 35 qualifying years, you may want to consider topping up. But if you already have the required number, there’s little need to make voluntary payments.
How to Make Voluntary Contributions?
HMRC has made it easier than ever to make voluntary NI contributions. You can now do so via your personal tax account or the HMRC app. These platforms also provide guidance on whether it’s worth paying for specific years.
Steps to Make a Voluntary Contribution:
- Visit GOV.UK – Your NI Record
- Identify any incomplete or missing years
- Log in to your Personal Tax Account
- Make a payment directly through the service
What If I Don’t Fill Gaps in My NI Record?
Gaps in your NI record mean your weekly State Pension payment will likely be less than the full amount, which is currently £221.20 per week (as of April 2025).
Current State Pension Rates (2025)
| State Pension Type | Weekly Amount | Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|
| New Full State Pension | £221.20 | £11,502.40 |
| Basic State Pension (pre-2016) | £169.50 | £8,814.00 |
View updated pension rates: GOV.UK – State Pension Rates
If you are close to retirement and discover you’re short of qualifying years, the government allows you to pay for gaps going back up to six years, sometimes even more, under transitional arrangements.
What About the Rise to Age 68?
The next proposed increase in the State Pension age is from 67 to 68. Though it’s currently scheduled between 2044 and 2046, the government is considering moving this timeline forward, possibly to the late 2030s, due to rising life expectancy and financial strain on public pensions.
Any acceleration of the age increase will undergo public and parliamentary scrutiny before becoming law.
Helpful Information
1. When will the UK State Pension age increase to 67?
It will gradually increase starting in 2026 and be fully implemented by 2028.
2. How can I check my State Pension age?
Use the official GOV.UK calculator here: Check State Pension Age
3. How can I increase my State Pension amount?
By making voluntary National Insurance contributions or qualifying for NI credits.
4. How many NI years do I need for the full pension?
You need 35 qualifying years for the full State Pension.
Final Analysis
With the UK State Pension age increasing from 66 to 67 by 2028, now is the time to review your retirement plans. Make use of government tools to check your pension age, review your National Insurance record, and consider making voluntary contributions if you have gaps.
Being informed and proactive today will lead to greater financial security in your retirement tomorrow. For further help, visit official government resources or seek independent financial advice tailored to your situation.
Katherine Johnson is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.