The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a significant change to the New State Pension rules that will take effect before March 2028. The new full state pension rules are being updated for claimants who are planning to start receiving their pension.
State Pension Age Increase
The basic state pension was replaced in 2016 by the New State Pension, which currently pays up to £241 per week. However, under a DWP reform, the state pension age is rising. The increase from 66 to 67 began last month and will continue over the next two years. This means individuals born in the early 1960s may not reach retirement at 66 as previously expected.
Specifically, people born between April 6, 1960, and March 5, 1961, will have their state pension age determined based on their exact date of birth.
DWP Statement
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.”
The DWP added: “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.”
Expert Concerns
David Finch, assistant director at the Health Foundation, warned that increasing the state pension age without providing support for workers with health issues could worsen the situation by exacerbating existing health inequalities. “The government should provide more support for people already out of work due to health issues,” he said. “Employers can help by adapting roles and maintaining contact with employees on sick leave.”
