UK state pension age to increase to 67 in 2026: who is affected?

The state pensionage in the UK will rise from 66 to 67 next year.

This increase will begin gradually on May 6, 2026 and apply to both men and women. Due to a law change made in 2014, it is expected to be fully implemented by 2028.

Another rise is scheduled between 2044 and 2046, when the state pension age will increase from 67 to 68.

The state pension in the UK is a regular payment from the Government made to people who have reached the eligible age and have paid or been credited with enough National Insurance contributions throughout their working life.

Everyone needs to stay informed about the age changes, especially those nearing retirement.

Here's a closer look at what the changes mean for you.

The state pension age increase affects everyone with a retirement plan, but it is particularly important for those born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977.

The Pensions Act 2014 brought forward a planned increase in the state pension age by eight years. It also altered how the increase is phased in. This means that instead of reaching the state pension age on a specific date, people born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, will become eligible for the state pension when they turn 67.

Anyone affected by the changes to their state pension age will receive a notification letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The UK’s state pension age is set to be reviewed by the end of this decade, with factors such as life expectancy and other demographic data being considered for potential adjustments. Any changes will require approval from Parliament before they can be implemented.

Your state pension age is the earliest age at which you can start receiving your state pension. This may be different from the age at which you can access your workplace or personal pension.

This online tool from the DWP allows anyone, regardless of age, to check: