A significant shift in the UK's retirement landscape is on the horizon, as the government confirms changes to the state pension age. Personal finance experts, including those cited by The Sun newspaper, warn that the "goalposts are moving" for millions of future retirees.
What is Changing and When?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has set in motion a phased increase in the state pension age. Starting from 6 April 2026, the official age at which you can claim your state pension will begin to rise from 66 to 67. This transition will not happen overnight but will creep up month by month over a two-year period, concluding in April 2028.
This legislative change was accelerated by eight years under the Pensions Act 2014, which also mandates a review of the state pension age at least every five years. While the government states it is not currently revising the timetable for the rise to 66 or 67, a future review could alter plans for a subsequent increase to age 68.
Who Will Be Affected?
The impact of this change depends entirely on your date of birth, creating a clear "transition zone" for many.
- If you are currently 65, you are likely safe and will receive your pension at age 66.
- If you are aged between 64 and 65 now, you fall into the transition period. Your state pension age will be 66 plus a specified number of months.
- If you are younger, you should plan to work until you are at least 67.
Specifically, the government has altered how the increase is phased. People born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will reach their state pension age at 66 years and a certain number of months, rather than all on a single date.
Planning for the Future
The practical consequence is that many people will have to wait longer than expected to access their state pension. Instead of claiming on your 66th birthday, you could face a delay of several months or even a full extra year, depending on your birth date.
It is crucial to note that any future changes to the pension age, including a potential rise to 68, would require approval by Parliament before becoming law. The current confirmed timeline, however, solidifies the move to age 67 by 2028. This underscores the importance of personal retirement planning and checking your official state pension age as the 2026 start date approaches.
