A New Delay for Retirement
The UK government has announced changes to the State Pension age that could push back when you get your retirement money. The age to claim your State Pension will rise from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028, with another increase to 68 planned for around 2044. Shared by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in June 2025, these changes aim to keep pensions affordable as people live longer. With over 12 million people, including 1.1 million in Scotland, relying on the State Pension, this news affects many. Here’s what it means, who’s hit, and how to plan.
Why the Pension Age Is Rising
The State Pension gives regular cash to retirees, but it’s costing more each year. The DWP says pension spending could reach £70 billion by 2030. With longer lifespans and fewer young workers paying National Insurance, the government wants to balance the budget. Raising the pension age to 67 by 2028 and 68 by 2044 will delay payments for millions, according to groups like Phoenix Insights. This follows the last rise to 66 in 2020. The changes need Parliament’s approval, and the law requires 10 years’ notice to avoid unfair shocks, like those felt by women born in the 1950s.
Who Will Feel the Impact?
The pension age rise will affect you based on your birth year. Here’s who’s likely to wait longer:
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Born between April 1960 and March 1961: You’ll claim your pension at 67 (2026–2028).
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Born between April 1970 and March 1977: You may wait until 68 (around 2044).
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Born before April 1951 (men) or April 1953 (women): You’re safe at age 66.
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Already getting your pension: Your payments won’t change unless your situation does.
Check your exact pension age using the calculator on GOV.UK. If you’re nearing 66, start planning now to avoid a gap in your income.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Current Pension Age | 66 |
| New Pension Age | 67 (2026–2028), 68 (2043–2044) |
| Affected Birth Years | 1960–1961 (age 67), 1970–1977 (age 68) |
| Check Your Age | GOV.UK pension calculator |
| Full Pension Amount | £230.25 per week (2025 rate) |
What It Means for Your Pension
The State Pension pays up to £230.25 a week (£11,973 a year) if you have 35 years of National Insurance contributions. If you were “contracted out” to a workplace pension, you might need more years to get the full amount. You can delay claiming your pension to increase it—waiting nine weeks adds about 1% to your weekly payment, or 5.8% per year. But if you get benefits like Pension Credit, delaying won’t boost your pension. The age rise could leave you short if you planned to retire at 66. Visit GOV.UK to check your National Insurance record and see if you can pay extra contributions to get more pension.
Other Ways to Prepare
If you face a pension delay, there are options to help. You can access private or workplace pensions from age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), which could cover you until your State Pension starts. Savings like ISAs can help, but investments can lose value, so be cautious. Pension Credit can top up your income if you’re over pension age and struggling, and it might unlock extras like council tax discounts. The Household Support Fund, run by local councils, offers cash or vouchers for bills or food. For free advice, contact Citizens Advice or the Pension Service on GOV.UK. Stick to official sources like GOV.UK to avoid scams promising fake pension deals.
Get Ready Now
The State Pension age changes could disrupt your retirement, especially if you were born after 1960. The full pension of £230.25 a week is a key part of retirement, but it’s not enough alone—experts say you need at least £14,400 a year for a basic lifestyle. Use the GOV.UK pension calculator to check your pension age and review your National Insurance record to avoid surprises. If you’re worried about waiting longer, look into Pension Credit, private pensions, or council support. With living costs still high, these changes could hit hard, so plan early. Stay updated through GOV.UK and take steps now to keep your retirement on track.
