The state pension age from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to rise for individuals born in specific years. This increase is particularly relevant for those with July birthdays, as the age threshold moves from 66 to 67, a change that began in April 2026.
Phased Increase Details
The rise is being implemented gradually over three tax years for people born between April 1960 and March 1961. The exact timing depends on the month of birth, with incremental adjustments starting from April 1960.
- Born April 6 to May 5, 1960: State pension at 66 years and one month (May to June 2026).
- Born May 6 to June 5, 1960: State pension at 66 years and two months (July to August 2026).
- Born June 6 to July 5, 1960: State pension at 66 years and three months (September to October 2026).
- Born July 6 to August 5, 1960: State pension at 66 years and four months (November to December 2026).
Individuals born later than August 1960 will not receive their state pension until 2027 or 2028. The Labour Party government stated: “The Pensions Act 2014 brought the increase in the state pension age from 66 to 67 forward by eight years. The state pension age for men and women will now increase to 67 between 2026 and 2028. The government also changed the way in which the increase in the state pension is phased. Rather than reaching state pension age on a specific date, people born between April 6, 1960 and March 5, 1961 will reach their state pension age at 66 years and the specified number of months.”
It is essential for those approaching retirement to check their exact date of birth, as the pension age varies. This change affects both men and women equally, ensuring a consistent retirement age for future pensioners.
