The state pension age increase to 68 could be implemented seven years earlier than currently planned, according to reports. While existing legislation sets the rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046, it is now suggested the government is considering advancing this to between 2037 and 2039.
Current State Pension Age Timetable
The state pension age is currently 66 for both men and women. It will rise to 67 between May 2026 and April 2028, affecting anyone born on or after April 6, 1960. Under the Pensions Act 2007, the age is scheduled to increase again to 68 between 2044 and 2046, impacting those born on or after April 6, 1977.
Possible Earlier Increase
A review of the state pension age is currently underway, and reports suggest it could conclude that the rise to 68 should happen between 2037 and 2039. This would affect people born between April 1970 and April 1977. If such a change were to take effect in 2037, a decision would need to be confirmed by 2027. The outcome of the latest review is expected to be published by March 2029.
However, the Treasury has dismissed these reports as “untrue”. A spokesperson stated: “The law remains to increase the state pension age to 68 in 2044. In July 2025, we announced the launch of the third review of the state pension age, which is required by legislation.”
How the State Pension Age Is Increasing
The state pension age is currently rising from 66 to 67, with further increases planned. Those born on or after April 6, 1960 will reach 67 between April 2026 and April 2028. Those born on or after April 6, 1977 will reach 68 between April 2044 and April 2046.
For those born between April 6, 1960 and March 5, 1961, the state pension age is calculated in intermediate months. Examples include:
- Born July 1960: State Pension age at 66 years and 4 months.
- Born December 1960: State Pension age at 66 years and 9 months.
- Born on or after March 6, 1961: State Pension age is officially 67.
