The UK Government has confirmed that the scheduled rise in the State Pension age to 67 remains set to take place between 2026 and 2028, although a formal review of the timetable is underway.
At present, the official State Pension age is 66 for both men and women. Under existing legislation, it will gradually increase to 67. Ministers have acknowledged public concern and confirmed that updated life expectancy and economic data are being examined before any further acceleration beyond 67 is considered.
Here is what is confirmed — and what remains unchanged.
What Has Actually Been Announced?
There has been no cancellation of the planned rise to 67.
The review relates primarily to:
- Long-term affordability of the pension system
- Updated life expectancy data
- Fairness across regions and income groups
Until legislation is amended, the 2026–2028 timetable remains in force.
Current State Pension Rules
The State Pension system is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
To receive the full State Pension, you typically need:
- 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions
- At least 10 years to receive any payment
The pension age applies uniformly across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Why the Age Was Set to Rise
The increase to 67 was originally legislated to reflect:
- Improvements in average life expectancy
- Rising public spending on pensions
- A growing ratio of retirees to working-age taxpayers
The aim was to maintain sustainability for future generations.
However, recent data suggests life expectancy improvements have slowed, prompting renewed debate.
Who Would Be Affected?
The scheduled rise to 67 will mainly affect:
- People born after April 1960
- Workers currently in their early 60s
For some individuals, the difference of one year in pension age can significantly impact:
- Retirement savings plans
- Mortgage arrangements
- Part-time work decisions
Anyone approaching retirement should check their personalised State Pension age via GOV.UK tools.
Could the Increase Be Delayed?
While the government has confirmed a review, there is:
- No formal legislation reversing the increase
- No confirmed announcement delaying the 2026–2028 schedule
Any change would require:
- Parliamentary approval
- Clear transitional arrangements
- Formal publication of revised dates
Financial Considerations
Decisions about pension age must balance:
- Public finances
- Tax revenue projections
- Health and social care costs
- Workforce participation among older adults
The Treasury must ensure long-term sustainability of pension spending.
Public Reaction
Campaign groups argue that:
- Healthy life expectancy varies widely by region
- Workers in physically demanding jobs struggle to work longer
- A single national pension age may not reflect inequalities
Supporters of the current timetable argue that:
- Longer life expectancy justifies later retirement
- A consistent age is administratively simpler
The review is expected to consider regional and health data before future decisions.
How This Links to the Triple Lock
The Triple Lock policy — which increases State Pension payments annually by the highest of inflation, earnings growth or 2.5% — remains separate from pension age decisions.
The age at which you can claim and the amount you receive are governed by different mechanisms.
What You Should Do Now
If you are approaching retirement:
- Check your National Insurance record
- Confirm your projected State Pension age
- Review workplace and private pension plans
- Monitor official announcements from DWP
Planning based on the current timetable remains the safest approach until changes are formally confirmed.
What Happens Next?
The Government is expected to publish updated findings following its demographic and fiscal review.
Until Parliament passes new legislation:
- The rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028 remains legally scheduled
- No drop back to 66 has been confirmed
Any adjustment would be widely communicated in advance.
FAQs
Is the State Pension age rise to 67 cancelled?
No. The 2026–2028 increase remains scheduled.
When will the age rise begin?
Between 2026 and 2028, depending on date of birth.
Could the government delay the rise?
Possibly, but no formal change has been announced.
Who is affected?
Primarily those born after April 1960.
Does this affect how much I receive?
No. Pension age and pension amount are separate issues.
What is the current State Pension age?
66 for men and women.
Where can I check my pension age?
Use the official calculator on GOV.UK.