The State Pension age in the UK is officially set to start rising to 67 from 2026, with the change affecting millions of men and women by 2028. This increase is part of a long-term plan outlined in the Pensions Act 2014 and forms the next major step in adjusting the retirement age in line with rising life expectancy.
If you were born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977, this new rule means you’ll now be eligible to claim your State Pension only when you turn 67.
Timeline
Originally, the shift to age 67 was planned for a later date. However, legislation passed in 2014 moved the goalposts, bringing the date forward by eight years.
Here’s a simple timeline to keep in mind:
| Birth Date Range | New State Pension Age |
|---|---|
| 6 March 1961 – 5 April 1977 | 67 |
| After 5 April 1977 | Likely 68 (future review) |
The DWP will be sending letters to affected individuals well ahead of their retirement, making sure people know when they’ll be eligible to receive payments.
Planning
If you’re planning your retirement, this change could shift your expectations by a year or more. Experts are urging individuals to check their updated retirement date using the official State Pension age tool on GOV.UK. It’s free and takes only a few minutes to use.
You’ll also see:
- Your State Pension age
- When you’ll qualify for Pension Credit
- When you’ll be eligible for free bus travel (especially relevant in Scotland, where it’s still age 60)
Future
This isn’t the end of the story. A further rise to age 68 is already scheduled under the Pensions Act 2007, currently set to take effect between 2044 and 2046. But even that could change.
A Pension Age Review is underway, and it’s likely to influence whether the government brings this increase forward. Some suggest the change to 68 might happen earlier, though this would require a full Parliamentary vote before it becomes law.
Commission
To explore the bigger picture of retirement in the UK, the government recently set up a new Pension Commission. This group will look at how to improve pension savings, especially for people who:
- Are self-employed
- Save less due to low income
- Are not currently enrolled in workplace pensions
The commission will also consider:
- Auto-enrolment contribution rates
- Whether the current pension age is fair
- How long people should reasonably expect to spend in retirement
Their findings will be published in 2027 and could shape future legislation.
Reviews
The government is required to review the State Pension age at least every five years. These reviews take into account various factors such as:
- Life expectancy
- Economic sustainability
- Retirement trends
- Fair distribution of retirement time
Dr Suzy Morrissey will lead the review process and submit recommendations, while the Government Actuary’s Department will prepare detailed life expectancy projections.
Next Steps
For now, what you need to know is simple:
- If you’re born after March 1961, your State Pension age is 67
- The DWP will inform you by letter, but you can check online anytime
- The age could rise again to 68, possibly sooner than planned
With this in mind, it’s a good time to:
- Check your State Pension age
- Review your retirement plans
- Consider additional saving options, especially if you’re self-employed or not in a workplace pension
FAQs
When does the State Pension age rise to 67?
From 2026, for people born between March 1961 and April 1977.
Will the pension age rise again?
Yes, to 68 between 2044 and 2046, possibly sooner.
How do I check my State Pension age?
Use the State Pension age tool on the GOV.UK website.
Will I get a letter from the DWP?
Yes, letters will be sent well before your eligibility date.
Who is reviewing the pension age?
Dr Suzy Morrissey and the Government Actuary’s Department.
