Brits are being asked to verify their state pension age as a sweeping new rule change is brought in by the Department of Work and Pensions. The change came into effect from April 2026 and pensioners are being urged to double check certain details before the cut-off date.
The adjustment began in April and means individuals born in the early 1960s may not be able to retire at 66, with their state pension age instead based on their specific date of birth.
The State Pension age is increasing from 66 to 67 between now and March 2028. Those born between April 6, 1960 and March 5, 1961 will see their retirement age extended beyond 66, with the precise age dependent on when they were born.
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.
“Use the free State Pension age calculator on GOV.UK to find your exact age – you just need your date of birth. You can also use the Check your State Pension forecast tool to see how much you might get and if you can increase it, for example, by filling any gaps in your record.
“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.”
Verifying your State Pension age is straightforward and can be completed online by inputting a date of birth into the UK Government’s official State Pension age calculator.
The full New State Pension currently stands at £241.30 per week, which amounts to £995.20 for each four-week payment period. The precise sum an individual receives is determined by their National Insurance record.
Check your State Pension age to find out when you can retire and claim state pension using the free online tool at GOV.UK here. Checking will tell you both when you will reach state pension age and your pension credit qualifying age.