The UK Government has confirmed plans to raise the State Pension age from 66 to 67, beginning in April 2026. This change will affect millions of people across the country specifically, those born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977.
This decision follows a scheduled review by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and forms part of a broader effort to adapt to increasing life expectancy and demographic shifts.
What’s Changing and When?
The current State Pension age is 66 for both men and women. Starting in April 2026, that threshold will begin to increase in phases and will reach 67 by March 2028.
The following groups will be affected:
- Born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1960: You’ll see incremental increases from 66 years and 1 month up to 66 years and 11 months, depending on your exact date of birth.
- Born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977: You will now reach State Pension age at 67.
Why Is the Pension Age Increasing?
The State Pension system was designed at a time when people spent fewer years in retirement. But with life expectancy increasing, the government argues that the current system is no longer financially sustainable.
The DWP’s 2017 review, led by John Cridland, recommended bringing forward the increase to 68 originally scheduled between 2044 and 2046 to occur sometime between 2037 and 2039. However, that decision has since been deferred and will be reconsidered in the next pension age review.
According to the government, “It is right that the State Pension age reflects increases in life expectancy to ensure fairness between generations, and the sustainability of public finances.”
More information on the official timetable for State Pension age changes can be found here:
DWP State Pension Age Timetable (PDF)
What This Means for You
For those impacted, this change means a longer wait before receiving the State Pension, which is currently:
- £221.20 per week (as of April 2025) for the full new State Pension
If you’re planning for retirement and were born between 1961 and 1977, it’s important to reassess your financial planning and pension savings, especially if you were expecting to receive the State Pension at age 66.
People closer to retirement especially those born in the early 1960s will experience only minor delays. But for younger individuals in the group, the increase to 67 will be definitive.
Will There Be More Increases?
Yes. The next scheduled increase, from 67 to 68, is still set for between 2044 and 2046, though it could be brought forward depending on economic and demographic data.
Further decisions will be based on the next review of State Pension age policy, which takes into account:
- Life expectancy trends
- Affordability of the system
- The number of working-age people supporting retirees
How to Prepare
If you’re among those affected, here are some steps you can take:
- Check your pension age:
Use the official calculator to find out when you will qualify:
State Pension Age Calculator - Get a State Pension forecast:
This shows how much you’re on track to receive and whether you can increase it:
Check your State Pension forecast - Review your savings and pension plans:
Private or workplace pensions will be critical in filling the gap before State Pension kicks in. - Plan for a longer working life:
As the age threshold increases, you may need to work longer or adjust your retirement timeline.
What If You Have Health Concerns?
Some campaigners argue that raising the State Pension age disproportionately affects people in physically demanding roles or those with shorter life expectancies. Currently, there is no early access to the State Pension based on occupation or health conditions.
However, some individuals may qualify for disability or sickness benefits if they are unable to work before reaching retirement age. Learn more here:
Final Thoughts
The upcoming State Pension age change is one of the most significant adjustments in the UK’s retirement landscape in recent years. Whether you’re approaching retirement or still years away, now is the time to assess your long-term financial plans and ensure you’re prepared.
For official guidance and the latest updates, always refer to gov.uk.
(FAQ,s)
Who will be affected by the new State Pension age rules?Anyone born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977 will now qualify for the State Pension at age 67, instead of 66.
When does the new pension age come into effect?
The phased increase starts in April 2026 and will be fully in place by March 2028.
Can I retire earlier than the new State Pension age?
You can choose to retire earlier, but you won’t be eligible for State Pension payments until your official pension age. You may rely on other income sources or private pensions in the meantime.
Will the pension age increase again in the future?
The State Pension age is expected to rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046. This may be revised in the upcoming reviews.
Where can I check my exact pension age and entitlements?
Use the State Pension Age Calculator and State Pension Forecast tool on the official government website.
Pankaj Kumar is a journalist at Chandigarh X, covering admit cards, recruitment, and government schemes. His articles provide readers with detailed insights into application processes, eligibility, and exam updates.
Outside of work, Pankaj enjoys traveling, fitness, and cricket, often participating in local matches on weekends.