Millions of Britons will have to wait until they turn 68 before they can claim their State Pension under changes already planned by the Government. The State Pension age is currently rising from 66 to 67, but another increase is on the way, meaning some people will have to wait an extra year before receiving their payments.
Timeline for the rise to 68
Under the current timetable, the State Pension age will rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046. The first people affected will reach State Pension age on May 6, 2044, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This includes people born between April 6 and May 5, 1977. Those born between May 6 and June 5, 1977, will reach State Pension age on July 6, 2044. The age will then continue to increase gradually, depending on when someone was born.
Discussions and current changes
There have previously been discussions about bringing forward the increase to 68, although this would require a change in the law. For now, the timetable remains the same.
Meanwhile, the increase from 66 to 67 is already taking place and will be completed by April 2028. People born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961, will reach State Pension age at different points between their 66th and 67th birthdays. Those born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, are currently due to receive their State Pension at 67.
How payments are calculated
The amount someone receives depends on their National Insurance record, including how many qualifying years they have built up. Anyone who wants to check when they can claim their State Pension can use the Government's free online calculator.
