The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a significant change to the state pension age, which will rise from 66 to 67 under a new timetable set by the Labour Party government. This shift will take place gradually between April 2026 and March 2028, with the exact age at which individuals can claim their pension depending on their precise date of birth.
Transition Period for Those Born Between 1960 and 1977
People born between April 6, 1960, and April 5, 1977, fall within the transition period and will experience a stepped increase in the age at which they can begin claiming their state pension. The first group affected, those born between April 6 and May 5, 1960, will qualify at 66 years and one month. For individuals born between May 6 and June 5, 1960, the age rises to 66 years and two months. This pattern continues, culminating in anyone born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, having to wait until age 67 to receive their pension.
Official DWP Guidance
The DWP stated: "Between April 2026 and March 2028, the State Pension age will gradually rise from 66 to 67, affecting those born on or after 6 April 1960." They advise individuals to use the free State Pension age calculator on GOV.UK to find their exact pension age by entering their date of birth. Additionally, the Check your State Pension forecast tool can help people estimate how much they might receive and explore ways to increase it, such as filling gaps in their National Insurance record.
The DWP also reminded citizens: "Remember, your State Pension doesn't start automatically. The Pension Service will write to you around four months before you reach State Pension age to invite you to apply."
Concerns Raised by Work and Pensions Committee
Debbie Abrahams, chair of the Work and Pensions Committee, expressed concerns about the impact of the rising pension age. In a report on pensioner poverty, she called on the government to create a coherent cross-governmental strategy to address the consequences of an ageing society. She noted that the government's response pointed to "standalone policies" but lacked a guiding framework, leaving people "exposed to falling between the cracks."
Abrahams highlighted the vulnerability of pre-pensioners, stating: "You could've worked a gruelling 45 years as a skilled tradesperson, paying taxes only to find yourself short of cash as you limp from day-to-day for more years until the pension payoff." She added: "It's only natural that this situation would make you feel a sense of injustice, facing hardship, having been independent and contributing for decades."
