The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging people to verify their State Pension age as the long-planned increase from 66 to 67 is now underway. This change, which began in April, means that individuals born in the early 1960s may not retire at 66 and will instead have their State Pension age determined by their date of birth.
State Pension Age Increase Timeline
The State Pension age is gradually rising from 66 to 67 between April 2026 and March 2028. Those born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961, will see their retirement age pushed beyond 66, with the exact age depending on their birth date. For some, this could mean waiting several extra months before they can start receiving their State Pension.
Why Checking Your State Pension Age Matters
The DWP emphasizes that the State Pension does not start automatically; individuals must actively claim it when they reach the eligible age. The Pension Service typically sends an invitation letter around four months before someone reaches their State Pension age, explaining how to make a claim. However, relying solely on this letter may lead to delays, so proactive checking is advised.
To find your exact State Pension age, you can use the free State Pension age calculator on GOV.UK. You will need your date of birth. Additionally, the Check your State Pension forecast tool helps you estimate how much you might receive and whether you can increase it, for example, by filling gaps in your National Insurance record.
State Pension Payment Rates
The full New State Pension is now worth £241.30 per week, equating to £995.20 every four-week payment period. The exact amount you receive depends on your National Insurance record. Most people need around 35 qualifying years of National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to get the full amount, while those with fewer years may receive a reduced payment. At least 10 years of NICs are required to qualify for any State Pension.
Future Changes to State Pension Age
The increase to 67 is part of long-term UK Government plans to reflect rising life expectancy and the growing cost of funding pensions. Further increases are already planned, with the State Pension age expected to rise again to 68 in the mid-2040s, although the exact timetable is still under review. For now, the DWP prioritizes ensuring people approaching retirement understand when they become eligible and how to claim.
How to Check Your State Pension Age
You can check your State Pension age online using the free tool at GOV.UK. This will tell you when you will reach State Pension age and your Pension Credit qualifying age. It is a quick and straightforward process that requires only your date of birth. The DWP also advises using the Check your State Pension forecast tool to see your estimated pension amount and identify ways to boost it.
Remember, your State Pension does not start automatically. The Pension Service will write to you about four months before you reach State Pension age to invite you to apply. However, you can also claim proactively to avoid any delays in receiving your payments.
