Learn how to check your state pension date and understand the changes affecting payments
London: The retirement age is changing. It started at 65 and is now moving to 68. This affects everyone, especially the Waspi women born in the 1950s. They are seeking a fair deal due to these changes.
From May 6, 2026, the state pension age will rise again. It will hit 67 by March 6, 2028. This change impacts those born between April 6, 1960, and April 5, 1977.
There’s a poll asking if the state should compensate the Waspi women. The government has apologized but says it has other priorities for the funds.
The DWP has a tool to check your exact state pension date. Just a heads up, it’s regularly updated, so results may change.
How much will my state pension be?
Your state pension amount depends on your age. Currently, the full state pension is £221.20 weekly, or £11,502 yearly. From April 2025, it will rise to £230.30 weekly, or £11,975 yearly. This depends on your National Insurance contributions.
You can check your contributions on the DWP State Pension website. It shows how many years you’ve contributed and gives a forecast of your pension amount.
You can also find out your Pension Credit qualifying age and when you can get free bus travel.
What is the additional state pension?
The additional state pension is extra money on top of your basic state pension. You can get it if you’re a man born before April 6, 1951, or a woman born before April 6, 1953. If you were born after that, you’ll receive the new state pension.
Can I claim my state pension while still working?
You can work while claiming your state pension. Citizens Advice says your earnings won’t affect your pension. However, they might impact other benefits like pension credit or housing benefit.
How do I claim pension credit?
You can apply for pension credit when you reach state pension age. Just visit the government website. Pension credit boosts your income to £218.15 weekly if you’re single, or £332.95 if you have a partner.
If your income is higher, you might still qualify for pension credit if you have a disability, care for someone, or have housing costs.
Your income includes your state pension, other pensions, earnings, and most social security benefits.
Your savings and investments
If you have £10,000 or less in savings, it won’t affect your pension credit. If you have more, every £500 over £10,000 counts as £1 income a week. For example, £11,000 in savings counts as £2 income a week.
