“State Pension Age Shock” What It Means for Your Future?

The state pension age will rise from 66 to 67, with the transition beginning in 2026 and fully applying to both men and women by 2028. This means millions of people currently in their 50s and early 60s will have to work for longer before being able to claim their pension.

The Pensions Act 2014 brought this change forward by eight years, speeding up the increase in retirement age. According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), anyone born after 6 March 1961 (currently aged 64) will now receive their pension only once they reach 67. As a result, those born between 6 March 1961 and 5 April 1977 will be eligible at age 67.

The next scheduled rise, from 67 to 68, is officially set for 2044–2046. However, this could be brought forward following the ongoing pensions review, which is legally required every five years to assess factors such as life expectancy and sustainability.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves explained that with people living longer, it’s necessary to ensure the state pension system remains fair and financially viable for future generations.

Rachel Vahey, Head of Public Policy at AJ Bell, added that while the increase to 67 is already confirmed for 2026–2028, the timing of the move to 68 is still uncertain, with the possibility of an earlier change “definitely on the cards.”