A Big Shift for Retirement Plans
The UK government has confirmed new changes to the State Pension age, which could mean millions will wait longer to get their retirement payments. The age you can claim your State Pension is set to rise from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028, with a further jump to 68 planned for the early 2040s. These changes, reported by the Daily Record on June 9, 2025, aim to keep the pension system affordable as people live longer. With about 13 million people claiming the State Pension, including 1.1 million in Scotland, this news affects many. Here’s what you need to know to check if you’re on the list of those impacted.
Why the Pension Age Is Changing
The State Pension gives regular money to people when they retire, but it’s getting expensive. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says costs could hit £70 billion by 2030. With life expectancy rising and fewer working-age people paying National Insurance, the government wants to balance the books. Raising the pension age to 67 by 2028 and 68 by 2041–2043 could delay payments for nearly three million people, according to Phoenix Insights. This follows a rise to 66 in 2020, but any new changes need Parliament’s approval and 10 years’ notice to avoid unfair surprises, like those faced by women born in the 1950s.
Who’s Affected by the Changes?
The pension age changes will hit people based on their birth year. Here’s who’s likely to be affected:
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Born between 1960 and 1962: You’ll wait until age 67 to claim your State Pension (2026–2028).
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Born between 1970 and 1977: You might need to wait until 68 if the rise happens by 2043.
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Born before April 1951 (men) or April 1953 (women): You’re already on the current pension age of 66.
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Pensioners over 65: Your payments won’t change unless your circumstances do.
You can check your exact State Pension age on GOV.UK using their online calculator. If you’re close to 66, plan ahead, as delays could affect your retirement.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Current Pension Age | 66 |
| New Pension Age | 67 (2026–2028), 68 (2041–2043) |
| Affected Birth Years | 1960–1962 (age 67), 1970–1977 (age 68) |
| Check Your Age | Use GOV.UK calculator |
| Full New Pension Amount | £230.25 per week |
What Happens to Your Pension?
The State Pension amount depends on your National Insurance contributions. The full New State Pension is £230.25 a week (about £11,973 a year), but you need 35 qualifying years to get it. If you were “contracted out” into a workplace pension, you might need more years. You can delay claiming your pension to boost it—every nine weeks of deferral adds about 1% to your weekly amount, or 5.8% per year. But if you or your partner get benefits like Pension Credit, deferring won’t increase your pension. Check your National Insurance record on GOV.UK to see if you can top up contributions to get more.
Other Support and Planning Ahead
If the pension age rise affects you, there are ways to prepare. You can access private or workplace pensions from age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), which could bridge the gap before your State Pension starts. Savings like ISAs can also help, though investments can go down as well as up. If you’re struggling, Pension Credit can top up your income, even if you’re over pension age. Local councils may offer help through the Household Support Fund for bills or food. For advice, contact Citizens Advice or call the Pension Service on GOV.UK. Avoid scams by sticking to official sources like GOV.UK for updates.
Don’t Get Caught Out
The State Pension age changes could push back your retirement plans, especially if you’re born after 1960. With the full pension at £230.25 a week, it’s a key part of retirement, but it won’t cover everything experts say you need at least £14,400 a year for a basic lifestyle. Check your pension age and National Insurance record now to avoid surprises. If you’re worried about delays, look into deferring your pension or other support like Pension Credit. These changes are a big deal, so stay informed through GOV.UK and plan early to keep your retirement on track.
