DWP State Pension age: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to roll out a major change to the State Pension age starting next year, impacting millions born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977. Beginning in April 2026, the pension age will gradually increase from 66 to 67 over a two-year period. For those nearing retirement, staying informed about these changes is essential for proper financial planning and future readiness.
DWP State Pension age : Upcoming Changes to the UK State Pension Age: What You Need to Know
Under current rules, both men and women in the UK can claim their State Pension at the age of 66. However, this is set to change as the government continues its phased approach to increasing the pension age in response to rising life expectancy and demographic shifts.
DWP State Pension age : State Pension Age Rising to 67
Beginning in April 2026, the State Pension age will gradually rise from 66 to 67. This incremental change will be completed by March 2028 and will affect those born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977.
Detailed Timeline of DWP State Pension age Increase
| Period | State Pension Age | Affected Birthdates |
|---|---|---|
| Until April 2026 | 66 | All currently eligible |
| April 2026 – May 2026 | 66 years and 1 month | April 6 – May 5, 1960 |
| June 2026 – July 2026 | 66 years and 2 months | May 6 – June 5, 1960 |
| August 2026 – September 2026 | 66 years and 3 months | June 6 – July 5, 1960 |
| October 2026 – November 2026 | 66 years and 4 months | July 6 – August 5, 1960 |
| December 2026 – January 2027 | 66 years and 5 months | August 6 – September 5, 1960 |
| February 2027 – March 2027 | 66 years and 6 months | September 6 – October 5, 1960 |
| April 2027 – May 2027 | 66 years and 7 months | October 6 – November 5, 1960 |
| June 2027 – July 2027 | 66 years and 8 months | November 6 – December 5, 1960 |
| August 2027 – September 2027 | 66 years and 9 months | December 6, 1960 – January 5, 1961 |
| October 2027 – November 2027 | 66 years and 10 months | January 6 – February 5, 1961 |
| December 2027 – January 2028 | 66 years and 11 months | February 6 – March 5, 1961 |
| From March 2028 | 67 | March 6, 1961 – April 5, 1977 |
This staged approach gives individuals time to plan and adjust their retirement strategies accordingly.
Legal Framework and Future Plans
These changes are part of the Pensions Act 2014, which laid the groundwork for raising the State Pension age. The legislation aims to sustain the pension system amid a growing elderly population. While the next scheduled increase bto age 68 is planned for between 2044 and 2046, this timeline is subject to review.
Historical State Pension Age Changes
| Period | Change | Affected Groups |
| 2010–2018 | Women’s age increased from 60 to 65 | Women born after April 5, 1950 |
| 2018–2020 | Increased from 65 to 66 | Women born after April 6, 1953 and men born after December 6, 1953 |
| 2026–2028 | Increasing from 66 to 67 | Born between March 6, 1961 and April 5, 1977 |
| 2044–2046 (planned) | Increasing from 67 to 68 | Born after April 5, 1977 |
Why Is the Pension Age Increasing?
- Rising Life Expectancy: Men turning 65 in 2023 are expected to live 19 more years; women about 21 more years.
- Demographic Pressures: Fewer working-age individuals are supporting more retirees.
- Financial Sustainability: Longer retirements place strain on public finances; raising the age helps ensure long-term system viability.
Debates and Proposals for Future Increases
DWP State Pension age : A 2017 review suggested raising the pension age to 68 as early as 2037–2039. However, a 2022 review recommended a more moderate 2041–2043 window. Some projections even hint at a rise to age 69 between 2046–2048. Final decisions are pending government review following the recent change in political leadership.
How to Check Your Pension Age
Use the GOV.UK’s official tool to check your State Pension age based on your date of birth. The service also shows:
- When you’ll qualify for Pension Credit
- When you’re eligible for free bus travel (available at 60 in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
Planning for the Change
- Review Pension Savings: Use the State Pension forecast service to check your entitlement.
- Work Longer or Retire Gradually: Consider phased retirement options.
- Check for Benefits: Pension Credit and disability benefits may help those unable to work until their pension age.
Impact on Different Groups
| Income Group | Impact |
| Low Income | May rely on benefits; greater financial strain |
| Middle Income | May need to work longer or save more |
| High Income | More retirement flexibility |
Health status and regional job availability also affect how people cope with delayed pension access.
Looking Ahead
The rising State Pension age reflects global trends as populations live longer and public finances are stretched. Staying informed and planning ahead is key. People born between 1961 and 1977 should prepare for a retirement age of 67.
FAQs
- When will the pension age rise to 67 ? April 2026 to March 2028.
- How do I check my exact age of eligibility? Use the GOV.UK calculator.
- Will it rise beyond 67? Yes, to age 68 by 2044-2046, with future reviews possibly accelerating this.