Planning for retirement in the UK? The state pension age could move up to 70. With state pension age changes on the horizon, knowing when you’ll qualify for benefits is key to financial security. Whether you’re an HR professional in the UK, or mapping out your own future, this guide breaks down the UK state pension age, what’s changing and how to prepare.
The UK state pension age is 66 for both men and women, a key milestone reached in 2023 after years of aligning men’s and women’s eligibility. To get the full new state pension, i.e. £230.25 per week in 2025-26, you’ll need at least 35 years of National Insurance contributions. The amount received a 4.1% boost this year thanks to the triple lock, which ties increases to the highest of inflation, earnings or 2.5 percent.
Experts warn that without making changes to the triple lock, the new state pension age in the UK could jump to 71 by 2050, or even 74 in a worst-case scenario.
If you’re unsure of where you stand, you can use the GOV.UK pension calculator to check your state pension age and forecast based on your birth date. For HR professionals, this could be a great tool to share with your employees, especially those nearing retirement and who might need to plug gaps in their contributions.
Understanding the UK state pension age and changes coming your way
Starting in May 2026, the state pension age in the UK will gradually rise and set to 67 by March 2028. This new state pension age in the UK will affect anyone born between April 6, 1960, and April 5, 1977. For instance, if you were born in early 1960s, you might hit pension age at 66 and a few months.
The state pension age is on track to hit 68 between 2044 and 2046. However, that’s still a lot of reviewing left on this matter. The government’s third state pension age review, which was launched in July 2025, is currently looking into life expectancy and economic pressures.
So, where does that leave us? Experts warn that without making changes to the triple lock, the new state pension age in the UK could jump to 71 by 2050, or even 74 in a worst-case scenario. This is a big shift, so staying informed on the matter is non-negotiable for those nearing retirement by 2040.
Why the new retirement age in the UK matters to you
Gradual retirement age increases do more than just push back your state pension. These numbers reshape how you’ll work and live for the rest of your life. A higher state pension age means many will stay in the workforce for longer than necessary.
For those born after April 1970, 68 is likely your retirement age. As for the younger workforce, the benchmark for retirement age could increase beyond this age.
HR professionals can ease this transition with the help of flexible work policies and quality pension education. Employees can also defer their state pension, boosting payments by about 5.8% for each year delayed. Moreover, private pensions are accessible from age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), giving a little wiggle room.
How to plan for the new state pension age in the UK?
One can check the National Insurance record and consider topping it up if needed. HR professionals could also work on auto-enrolment via workplace pensions to create a safety net. For extra guidance on the retirement age changes in the UK, consider tools like Age UK’s pension calculator or chat with a financial advisor.
Want more HR-focused retirement tips? Check out our articles on Retirement planning for HR leaders and mastering pension reforms in the workplace.
Subscribe to the leading Human Resources Magazine to receive exclusive HR news and insights directly to your inbox.
