State Pension Age to Rise to 67 Starting in 2026

The United Kingdom’s State Pension age will begin gradually increasing from 66 to 67 starting in 2026, as part of a phased adjustment confirmed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The move will affect millions of working-age Britons, particularly those born after April 1960.

The current State Pension age remains at 66 until the end of the 2025/2026 financial year. Individuals born between October 6, 1954, and April 5, 1960, will still reach pensionable age at 66. However, beginning in April 2026, those born on or after April 5, 1960, will experience a gradual increase in their qualifying age, which will climb to 67 by 2028.

The phased change means that people born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961, will see their State Pension age increase by a few months beyond 66. From then on, individuals born up to April 5, 1977, will have to wait until they are 67 to claim their pension.

This shift stems from longstanding government policy designed to reflect increased life expectancy and manage long-term public spending. While the timing and details were originally set by previous administrations, the implementation continues under the current Labour-led government, which has not reversed course despite pressure from some unions and ageing advocacy groups.

Critics argue that the policy risks penalising those in physically demanding jobs who may not be able to work well into their late 60s. Others, however, view the change as a necessary adjustment to ensure the long-term sustainability of the State Pension system, especially as the ratio of working taxpayers to retirees continues to narrow.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) maintains that the increase is based on independent recommendations and demographic data. A government spokesperson previously stated, “The decision reflects changes in life expectancy and ensures fairness between generations.”

Despite the clear rationale from the department, public confidence in the handling of retirement policy remains mixed, particularly with the current Labour Party in power. Many are sceptical that the government will provide adequate support or flexibility for those adversely affected by the age shift, especially amid concerns over economic uncertainty and declining savings rates.

As the transition begins, individuals nearing retirement age are encouraged to check their eligibility dates through the official government portal. Planning remains key, particularly for those in their early 60s who may find themselves waiting several months longer than expected to receive their pension.

The full rollout of the increased pension age is expected to be complete by 2028.