The UK’s state pension system is poised for a substantial increase, thanks to the government’s triple lock guarantee. Under this mechanism, pensions rise each year by whichever is the highest of inflation, average earnings growth, or 2.5%. Following a surge in wage growth, pensioners are likely to receive one of the largest boosts in recent years, offering much-needed financial relief for millions.
As the UK economy adapts to post-pandemic recovery, the state pension increase is expected to benefit those who rely heavily on it, particularly the elderly. The new pension figures, confirmed in the coming months, will also affect how other retirement savings and income are taxed.
Pension Increase Expected in April 2026
The full new state pension currently stands at £230.25 a week, amounting to £11,973 per year. Thanks to the government’s triple lock system, pensions will increase in line with either inflation, wage growth, or a guaranteed minimum of 2.5%—whichever is highest. According to official data from the Office for National Statistics, average earnings growth stood at 4.6% between April and June, and experts predict this could be the figure used to set next year’s rise.
This would mean a 4% to 4.5% rise in the state pension, pushing the total annual payment for someone receiving the full pension to somewhere between £12,451 and £12,512. While this increase will provide welcome relief to many pensioners, it also brings the state pension closer to the personal income tax allowance threshold of £12,570. As a result, pensioners could find themselves paying tax on any additional income, such as from savings or private pensions, once their state pension exceeds the threshold.
Implications for Income Tax and Retirement Planning
The rise in the state pension will have broader implications for pensioners, particularly when it comes to tax planning. Currently, the personal allowance—the income threshold before income tax kicks in—stands at £12,570. For those receiving the full state pension, an increase of just £59 in income from other sources would be enough to push them into the income tax bracket.
Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, points out that while the triple lock ensures pensions keep pace with wage growth, it also brings many pensioners closer to the point where they may have to pay income tax.
“A rise of 4.0 to 4.5% means the state pension would be between £12,451 and £12,512. This would bring it within touching distance of the personal allowance – so anyone with even a very modest personal pension income could end up paying income tax.” she explains.
