The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is reminding Britons to verify their State Pension age as the long-anticipated increase from 66 to 67 is now underway. The change, which began in April, means individuals born in the early 1960s may retire later than expected, with their pension age determined by their exact date of birth.
Gradual Increase Underway
The State Pension age is rising from 66 to 67 between now and March 2028. Those born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961, will have their retirement age pushed beyond 66, with the precise age depending on their birth date. For some, this could mean waiting several extra months before they can start receiving their State Pension.
The DWP encourages people approaching retirement to confirm their State Pension age to know exactly when they will be eligible, as payments do not begin automatically. According to the Daily Record, 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."
How to Check Your State Pension Age
Checking your State Pension age is simple and can be done online. The DWP advises: "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."
It is important to note that the State Pension does not start automatically. The Pension Service usually sends an invitation letter roughly four months before someone reaches their State Pension age, explaining how to make a claim. The DWP reminds: "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."
State Pension Amounts and Eligibility
The full New State Pension is currently worth £241.30 per week, equating to £995.20 for each four-week payment period. The exact amount an individual receives depends on their National Insurance record. Most people need around 35 qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to receive the full New State Pension. Those with fewer years may qualify for a smaller amount, and a minimum of 10 years of NICs is required to be eligible for any State Pension payments.
Future Increases
The increase in the State Pension age is part of a long-term UK Government plan designed to reflect rising life expectancy and the growing cost of funding pensions. Further rises are already planned, with the State Pension age expected to increase again to 68 in the mid-2040s, although the exact timetable for that change is still under review. For now, the DWP says its focus is on ensuring those nearing retirement understand when they will qualify for the State Pension and how to claim it.
