The UK State Pension age is 66 for men and women. It is rising to 67 between 6 April 2026 and 5 March 2028, and is due to rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046 under current law. The exact date you can claim depends on your date of birth.
State Pension age by date of birth
| Born | State Pension age |
|---|---|
| Before 6 April 1960 | 66 |
| 6 April 1960 to 5 March 1961 | 66 plus up to 11 months, rising by a month for each month of birth |
| 6 March 1961 to 5 April 1977 | 67 |
| After 5 April 1977 | Between 67 and 68 under current law |
The government reviews the State Pension age regularly, so dates for younger people could change. Use the official “Check your State Pension age” tool on GOV.UK for your exact date.
How much is the State Pension?
The full new State Pension is £241.30 a week in 2026/27, about £12,548 a year. It normally rises each April under the “triple lock”, by the highest of inflation, average earnings growth or 2.5%.
- You usually need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance for the full amount.
- You need at least 10 years to get anything.
- Gaps can sometimes be filled with voluntary contributions.
You have to claim it
The State Pension is not paid automatically. You should get a letter about two months before you reach State Pension age, and you can claim online, by phone or by post.
Deferring your State Pension
If you delay claiming, your pension grows by about 1% for every nine weeks you defer, which is just under 5.8% for a full year. That can suit people who are still working and would otherwise pay more tax on it.
Can I retire before State Pension age?
Yes, but you need other income to bridge the gap. Most workplace and personal pensions can be accessed from age 55, rising to 57 from April 2028. See how much you should have in your pension and SIPP vs ISA for ways to build that bridge.
Is the State Pension taxable?
Yes. It counts as taxable income, though it is paid without tax taken off. If your total income is above the Personal Allowance of £12,570, tax is usually collected through your other pensions or a Simple Assessment.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I check my State Pension forecast?
Use the “Check your State Pension forecast” service on GOV.UK. It shows how much you could get and whether you have gaps.
Can I work and claim the State Pension?
Yes. You also stop paying National Insurance once you reach State Pension age.
Will the State Pension age rise to 68 sooner?
It has been proposed in past reviews but is not law. Current legislation has the rise between 2044 and 2046.
Source: GOV.UK State Pension guidance. This article is general information, not financial advice.
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