Brits are being advised to verify their State Pension age as the long-awaited rise from 66 to 67 is now in progress. The adjustment began in April and means individuals born in the early 1960s may not be able to retire at 66, with their State Pension age instead based on their specific date of birth.
Gradual Increase from 66 to 67
The State Pension age is increasing from 66 to 67 between now and March 2028. Those born between April 6, 1960 and March 5, 1961 will see their retirement age extended beyond 66, with the precise age dependent on when they were born. For some individuals, this could result in waiting several additional months before they can begin claiming their State Pension.
According to the Daily Record, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging those nearing retirement to check their State Pension age so they understand precisely when they will qualify, as payments are not issued automatically.
DWP Guidance on Checking Your Age
The DWP stated: "Between April 2026 and March 2028, the State Pension age will gradually rise from 66 to 67, affecting those born on or after 6 April 1960. Use the free State Pension age calculator on GOV.UK to find your exact age - you just need your date of birth. You can also use the Check your State Pension forecast tool to see how much you might get and if you can increase it, for example, by filling any gaps in your record."
Claiming Your State Pension
Another aspect is that the State Pension does not commence automatically - people must proactively claim it upon reaching State Pension age. The Pension Service typically posts an invitation letter approximately four months before an individual reaches their State Pension age, outlining how to submit a claim. The DWP stated: "Remember, your State Pension doesn't start automatically. The Pension Service will write to you around four months before you reach State Pension age to invite you to apply."
How to Check Your State Pension Age
Verifying your State Pension age is straightforward and can be completed online by inputting a date of birth into the UK Government's official State Pension age calculator. The full New State Pension currently stands at £241.30 per week, which amounts to £995.20 for each four-week payment period. The precise sum an individual receives is determined by their National Insurance record.
National Insurance Requirements
Most people require approximately 35 qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to obtain the full New State Pension, while those with fewer years may be entitled to a reduced amount. A minimum of 10 years of NICs is necessary to qualify for any State Pension payments.
Future Increases Planned
The rise in the State Pension age forms part of a long-term UK Government strategy intended to account for increasing life expectancy and the mounting cost of financing pensions. Additional increases are already scheduled, with the State Pension age anticipated to rise once more to 68 in the mid-2040s, though the precise timeline for that adjustment remains under review. At present, the DWP states that its priority is ensuring those approaching retirement age are fully aware of when they will become eligible for the State Pension and the process involved in making a claim.
Check your State Pension age to find out when you can retire and claim State pension using the free online tool at GOV.UK here. This will tell you when you will reach State Pension age and your Pension Credit qualifying age.
