The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that the State Pension age in the UK will rise to 67 starting from April 2026, affecting millions of future retirees.
This adjustment comes amid a broader plan to cut £5 billion in long-term spending, as the government seeks to maintain a sustainable pension system in the face of longer life expectancy and increasing financial pressure.
The change will directly affect anyone born between April 1960 and April 1961, with others following based on birthdate as the increase is phased in until March 2028.
Why the State Pension Age Is Rising
The UK government outlined several key reasons for this decision:
- People are living longer, with many reaching their late 80s and beyond
- The cost of pensions is rising, putting pressure on public finances
- A need for intergenerational fairness, ensuring that future generations can also access pension support
This move is meant to extend the sustainability of the pension system, ensuring that payments remain secure while managing national budget constraints.
Timeline of the Pension Age Increase
| Period | State Pension Age |
|---|---|
| Current (2025) | 66 |
| From April 2026 to March 2028 | Increasing to 67 |
This means that many will have to work longer or rely on other income sources before accessing State Pension benefits.
Who Will Be Affected?
The increase to age 67 could impact:
- People in poor health who may not be able to work longer
- Manual labor workers who face physical strain in their 60s
- Those without private pensions or savings, increasing reliance on benefits
- Individuals born between April 1960 and April 1961, who may see their State Pension start date pushed back
Many low-income earners and older adults in physically demanding jobs are likely to face financial hardship during the gap before they become eligible.
New State Pension Rates for 2025
While the pension age is increasing, so too is the amount pensioners receive, based on the triple lock mechanism.
| Pension Type | 2024 Rate | 2025 Rate | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| New State Pension | £221.20 | £230.25 | £469.40 |
| Basic State Pension (pre-2016) | £169.50 | £176.45 | £360.70 |
The increase is based on a 4.1% rise in average earnings, offering some relief to retirees amid rising living costs.
What About Accessing Pensions Early?
If you’re concerned about the gap between work and pension eligibility, you might be able to access private or workplace pensions earlier:
- Current early access age: 55
- From April 6, 2028: Increases to 57
This can provide short-term financial support, but withdrawing early may reduce overall retirement income. It’s wise to consult a financial advisor before making such decisions.
Is Help Available for Affected People?
Campaigners are calling for additional support, especially for those in hardship. Suggestions include:
- Boosting Universal Credit for near-retirement individuals
- Offering targeted support to low-income households
- Providing exceptions for people with certified health conditions
A government-backed estimate shows that investing £600 million in pre-retirement benefits could lift 30,000 households out of poverty.
How to Prepare for the Pension Age Change
With the new State Pension age approaching, here’s what you can do now:
- Check your State Pension forecast at gov.uk
- Review workplace or private pension funds for early access options
- Create an emergency savings buffer to cover the income gap
- Speak with a financial adviser to optimize your retirement plan
The confirmation of the State Pension age increasing to 67 from April 2026 is a major shift that will affect millions.
While this move may help stabilize the economy and public finances, it places additional pressure on those who are already vulnerable or have limited income.
Although the State Pension payments are increasing, the delay in eligibility means many will need to rethink their retirement strategies.
Whether that means saving more, adjusting work plans, or accessing private pensions earlier, planning ahead has never been more important.
FAQs
When will the State Pension age rise to 67?
Between April 2026 and March 2028, the State Pension age will gradually increase from 66 to 67.
How much is the State Pension in 2025?
The new State Pension will be £230.25 per week, while the basic State Pension will rise to £176.45 per week.
Can I access other pensions before reaching 67?
Yes, workplace and private pensions can be accessed from age 55, rising to 57 in April 2028.