The UK State Pension age will begin rising from 66 to 67 next year, with the change set to be fully implemented by 2028. As reported by Daily Record, this adjustment, legislated in 2014, will impact individuals born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, who will now only be able to claim their State Pension at 67.
A further increase from 67 to 68 is also planned under the Pensions Act 2007, scheduled to take effect between 2044 and 2046. However, future government reviews could bring forward this timeline, depending on life expectancy and other economic factors.
Why Is the State Pension Age Increasing?
The decision to raise the State Pension age stems from longer life expectancy and the need to sustain the pension system. The Pensions Act 2014 accelerated the increase from 66 to 67, moving it forward by eight years from previous projections. The law also introduced regular government reviews, ensuring the retirement age aligns with changing demographics and economic conditions.
While the UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to the phased increase, a review before the end of the decade will determine whether the planned rise to 68 should be implemented sooner. If changes are approved, they will require Parliamentary approval before becoming law.
How to Check Your State Pension Age
With changes coming into effect, future retirees are being urged to check their State Pension age to ensure they are prepared. The government provides an online tool on GOV.UK, allowing individuals to check:
- When they will reach State Pension age.
- Their Pension Credit qualifying age.
- When they will be eligible for free bus travel (which remains at 60 in Scotland).
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will notify those affected by the upcoming changes well in advance, ensuring people can adjust their retirement plans accordingly.
Can You Boost Your State Pension?
For those concerned about their retirement income, the government is offering an option to fill gaps in National Insurance (NI) contributions to increase their pension payments.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) recently confirmed that more than 10,000 people have used a new digital service to boost their State Pension since it launched last year. However, the deadline to fill missing NI contributions from as far back as 2006 is set to expire on April 5, 2025.
Financial expert Alice Haine advised people to check their NI records before making voluntary payments, as unnecessary top-ups won’t be refunded. She explained:
“Plugging gaps can be quite an expensive process, so it is important to assess whether you actually need to buy back any missing years. This will depend on how many more years you plan to work and whether you are eligible for NI tax credits.”
For individuals who took career breaks, worked abroad, or had periods of unemployment, checking their State Pension forecast and NI record on GOV.UK can help them determine whether topping up contributions is necessary.
