The UK government is encouraging citizens to complete a DWP check to verify their state pension eligibility, in light of scheduled state pension changes that will gradually raise the retirement age.
Starting in 2026, the age at which people can begin claiming their pension will increase, potentially affecting retirement plans for millions. Experts stress that a lack of preparation could result in financial shortfalls during the transition.
According to Devon Live, those born between April 1960 and April 1978 are likely to be impacted. Individuals are therefore urged to confirm their entitlement date and adjust their financial strategy if needed.
Gradual Increase in State Pension Age From 2026
The current state pension age is 66, but this will rise to 67 between April 2026 and April 2028. This change will affect people born between April 1960 and April 1978.
Individuals are advised to use the government’s online tool to determine exactly when they will become eligible for their state pension. Fiona Peake, personal finance expert at Ocean Finance, noted:
“Checking your state pension age is easy to do online and takes less than five minutes. You just need to go to the Government’s website and put in your date of birth. It’ll tell you the exact date you can claim your state pension.”
Why Confirming Your Pension Age Matters
Knowing your eligibility date allows you to plan retirement more effectively—adjusting savings strategies, delaying retirement, or preparing for alternative support options if needed.
“Knowing that date helps you plan around it, whether that means topping up your savings now, adjusting when you plan to retire or looking into other types of support you might be able to get in the meantime,” Peake explained.
She added that uncertainty can lead to significant financial strain:
“If you were expecting to get that money from a certain date and it turns out you won’t, you could be left with a gap of hundreds or even thousands of pounds depending on how long you need to wait.”
“This can hit particularly hard if you don’t have much in private savings or if you’ve already started slowing down at work—you may have to dip into your savings sooner than planned or carry on working longer to cover everyday costs.”
Application and Eligibility Details
Eligible individuals can begin the state pension application process four months before reaching pension age. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) typically sends a letter in advance with an invitation code to apply online.
Users can also check their pension forecast through the HMRC app, or by completing form BR19 and sending it by post. Those preferring assistance by phone can contact the Future Pension Centre.
It’s important to note that the GOV.UK forecast tool cannot be used if you already receive the state pension or have deferred claiming it. In such cases, individuals should contact the Pension Service (UK) or the International Pension Centre (abroad).
Checking National Insurance Record Can Boost Pension
The full new state pension is currently set at £230.25 per week, requiring 35 qualifying years of National Insurance (NI) contributions. Gaps in your NI record can reduce the amount received, but may be filled voluntarily to increase your entitlement.
The pension forecast service also offers insights into how contributions can be improved or completed to secure higher payments in retirement.
Preparing for Financial Gaps
Kristian Manton, financial adviser at Octopus Money, highlighted the risk of income delays:
“A delay of even a few months can have a serious impact if your household budget is tight, potentially leaving you short and starting retirement on the back foot. That’s why it’s worth reviewing your planned spending and other sources of retirement income as early as possible.”
He also noted a growing interest in phased retirement:
“We’re also seeing more people considering phased retirement—reducing their working hours or switching to part-time work—to ease the transition and manage their finances as state pension changes come into effect.”
Using Official Tools for Retirement Planning
The GOV.UK website provides a step-by-step resource titled Plan your retirement income, including:
- Confirming state pension age
- Checking pension forecast
- Exploring ways to increase the pension
- Assessing other support options
- Deciding when to retire
The online portal is protected by secure identity verification using photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence. The information it provides may be subject to change, as state pension rules are under periodic review.
