The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially announced a significant update to the UK State Pension age, set to take effect from 2026.
This move will gradually increase the retirement age from 66 to 67 by 2028, impacting thousands of men and women across the UK.
This article details who will be affected, the complete pension schedule, and steps you should take now to stay financially prepared.
Who Will Be Affected?
The pension age increase affects people born on or after April 6, 1960. Previously eligible to retire at 66, they will now have to wait slightly longer, with the age increasing month by month until it reaches 67.
Here is the official breakdown:
| Date of Birth | New State Pension Age |
|---|---|
| April 6 – May 5, 1960 | 66 years and 1 month |
| May 6 – June 5, 1960 | 66 years and 2 months |
| June 6 – July 5, 1960 | 66 years and 3 months |
| July 6 – August 5, 1960 | 66 years and 4 months |
| August 6 – September 5, 1960 | 66 years and 5 months |
| September 6 – October 5, 1960 | 66 years and 6 months |
| October 6 – November 5, 1960 | 66 years and 7 months |
| November 6 – December 5, 1960 | 66 years and 8 months |
| December 6, 1960 – January 5, 1961 | 66 years and 9 months |
| January 6 – February 5, 1961 | 66 years and 10 months |
| February 6 – March 5, 1961 | 66 years and 11 months |
| March 6, 1961 – April 5, 1977 | 67 years |
From March 6, 1961 onward, the State Pension age becomes 67 for all retirees.
Why Is the State Pension Age Increasing?
The change is driven by:
- Rising life expectancy
- Increased pressure on public finances
- The need to keep the State Pension system sustainable
Government data shows that people are living longer, and the number of retirees is growing faster than the working population.
Adjusting the retirement age helps maintain balance and ensures the system can continue providing support in the future.
How to Prepare for the Change
If you’re born after April 6, 1960, here’s how to stay ahead:
- Check Your Pension Age:
Use the official pension age tool on GOV.UK to determine when you can claim. - Review Your Forecast:
Log into your GOV.UK pension forecast account to estimate your payments. - Plan for Savings Gaps:
If your pension age is delayed, consider private pensions or ISAs to cover the difference. - Adjust Retirement Goals:
Review your retirement timeline and budget for any adjustments in income.
Public Reactions & Economic Context
Many nearing retirement have expressed concern.
While the government argues that this measure is necessary for long-term stability, critics worry about the impact on manual workers and those with limited private pensions.
Financial analysts forecast more pension age increases in the future, especially as the dependency ratio (retirees vs. working adults) continues to climb.
The DWP’s planned increase in the State Pension age from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028 is a critical change for millions across the UK.
Those affected must act now to ensure their retirement plans remain on track.
Whether by reviewing official forecasts or boosting personal savings, early preparation is key to a stable retirement journey
FAQs
Who will be affected by the pension age increase?
Anyone born between April 6, 1960, and April 5, 1977 will see a gradual shift in their State Pension age from 66 to 67.
Why is the pension age increasing?
The change aims to ensure the pension system remains sustainable, accounting for longer life expectancy and financial pressures on the public budget.
Can I retire earlier if I want to?
You can choose to retire early, but State Pension payments will only begin once you reach your eligible age, based on your birth date.