The UK state pension system is set for a major shake-up that could impact millions of people, especially those born after 1960. With the government under increasing financial pressure due to longer life expectancy and a growing elderly population, a significant decision has been made: the state pension age is expected to rise again starting in 2026. If you were born after 1960, this change could affect your retirement planning, lifestyle, and financial security. Here’s what every Brit needs to understand before the changes take effect.
What’s changing in 2026?
In 2026, the UK government is expected to begin increasing the state pension age beyond the current threshold. As it stands, the state pension age is 66 for both men and women. However, under the planned revisions, this will gradually rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028.
This increase will primarily impact those born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961. Individuals within this age range may find that their pension eligibility is delayed by several months to a full year. People born after March 1961 will experience the full effects of the pension age rising to 67 and beyond in future reviews.
Why is the pension age going up?
The primary reason behind the pension age rise is demographic and economic pressure. The UK has seen a consistent rise in life expectancy over the past decades. This means people are living longer, claiming pensions for more years, and relying more heavily on government-funded benefits and services.
In addition to longevity, there’s a shrinking working-age population supporting the pension system. With fewer workers paying into National Insurance, the government faces increased strain on public finances. By increasing the pension age, the government aims to reduce long-term expenditure and maintain the sustainability of the state pension system.
Who will be affected?
Anyone born after 1960 should prepare for changes to their state pension age. The first to be affected are those turning 66 from 2026 onwards. For example, if you were born in May 1960, you may have to wait a few additional months beyond your 66th birthday to claim your state pension.
The full rise to 67 will affect those born in or after April 1961. While this may seem like a small adjustment on paper, for many, it could mean delaying retirement plans, managing healthcare needs without pension support, or rethinking financial strategies for later life.
How to check your new pension age
The UK government provides an online state pension age calculator through GOV.UK, which allows you to check exactly when you’ll be eligible to claim your pension based on your date of birth. This tool also shows when you can apply and how much you might be entitled to receive.
Knowing your new pension age is crucial for effective financial planning. Whether you’re considering early retirement, continuing to work part-time, or delaying your retirement altogether, understanding your timeline will help you make smarter decisions.
Impact on retirement planning
A rise in pension age means that individuals will need to bridge the income gap for a longer period before state pension kicks in. This may lead people to rely more on private pensions, workplace pensions, or personal savings.
Those without a robust pension plan might need to delay retirement, take on extra work, or reconsider their lifestyle expectations for their retirement years. It’s especially important for those with physically demanding jobs or health concerns, as working longer may not always be a practical option.
How much will you receive?
The full new State Pension in the 2025–26 tax year is £221.20 per week (about £11,500 per year). To receive the full amount, you typically need at least 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions.
If you have fewer qualifying years, you’ll get a proportionately smaller amount. It’s also possible to pay voluntary contributions to boost your entitlement if you have gaps in your record. Checking your National Insurance record online can help you estimate how much you might get and whether you need to take action.
Can you retire earlier?
While the state pension age is increasing, private and workplace pensions may offer some flexibility. Some people may be able to access their private pensions from age 55 (rising to 57 from 2028), depending on their scheme rules.
However, retiring before the state pension age means you’ll have to support yourself entirely through your own means until your state pension kicks in. This makes it essential to calculate whether your savings and investments are enough to sustain you for those gap years.
Is this change final?
Though the rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028 has been confirmed, future increases are still under review. The government has proposed increasing the state pension age to 68 by the mid-2040s, and possibly earlier. The exact timing of such changes will depend on demographic data, financial forecasts, and political decisions.
That said, changes to pension age usually happen gradually and with prior notice. But those in their 40s and early 50s should expect that their retirement age may not remain the same as it is today.
Public reaction to the change
The pension age rise has drawn mixed reactions across the UK. While some understand the financial necessity, others argue that it unfairly affects those in lower-income or physically demanding jobs who may not be able to work until age 67 or beyond.
Campaign groups such as Waspi (Women Against State Pension Inequality) have also raised concerns about insufficient notice or communication when pension age increases are announced, particularly for women born in the 1950s who experienced abrupt changes.
What you should do now
If you’re in your early 60s or even late 50s, this is the right time to reassess your retirement plans. Review your pension statements, check your National Insurance record, and speak to a financial advisor if possible. Even a few additional years of contributions can make a significant difference in your retirement income.
If you’re self-employed or have gaps in your work history, consider paying voluntary National Insurance contributions to maximise your future state pension. Explore other savings options such as ISAs, personal pensions, or annuities to ensure you’re not caught short when retirement arrives.
Should you delay claiming your pension?
One lesser-known option is to delay your state pension voluntarily. If you defer claiming it, you can receive a higher weekly payment later. For every 9 weeks you defer, your pension increases by 1%. That’s around 5.8% for every full year of delay, which can be a useful strategy for those in good health with other income sources.
However, delaying isn’t right for everyone. If you need the income or have health concerns, claiming your pension as soon as you’re eligible may be the best course of action.
Conclusion
The rise in state pension age from 2026 is more than just a policy tweak—it’s a life-changing shift that will affect millions of Brits born after 1960. Whether you’re just a few years away from retirement or still planning ahead, it’s critical to stay informed and proactive.
By understanding what’s changing, checking your entitlement, and planning around the new pension age, you can take control of your financial future. Don’t wait until the last moment—start preparing now so that you’re ready for whatever 2026 brings.
