Millions of pensioners across the United Kingdom are set to receive a significant boost to their income next year, with annual State Pension payments rising by up to £598.
Triple Lock Guarantees Pension Boost
The increase, confirmed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is a direct result of the government's triple lock guarantee. This policy ensures the State Pension rises each year by the highest of three measures: Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation, average earnings growth, or 2.5%.
For the 2026/27 financial year, starting 6 April 2026, the State Pension will increase by 4.7%. This translates to an extra £11.50 each week for those receiving the full new State Pension. The DWP's latest figures show that 13.1 million people were claiming the State Pension as of February 2025.
New State Pension Rates Revealed
Official data from the UK Parliament website outlines the new weekly payment rates that will come into effect:
New State Pension: Will increase from £230.25 per week to £241.30 per week. This applies to individuals who reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016.
Basic State Pension: Will rise from £176.45 per week to £184.90 per week. This is the core amount for those who reached State Pension age before April 2016 and are part of the older system.
Eligibility and How to Boost Your Pension
To qualify for the new State Pension, you must be a man born on or after 6 April 1951 or a woman born on or after 6 April 1953. Crucially, you will need a minimum of 10 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions or credits to receive any payment.
Not everyone will receive the full new State Pension amount. Your payment depends on your National Insurance record. If you have gaps, you can potentially increase your pension by:
- Claiming National Insurance credits (for periods of unemployment, illness, or caring responsibilities).
- Continuing to work and pay National Insurance contributions until you reach State Pension age.
- Making voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill gaps in your record.
The government advises that any qualifying years after 6 April 2016 can help increase your pension up to the maximum full rate. If you are unsure of your forecast, you can check your State Pension entitlement for free via the government's online service.
