State pension age rise explained: What the change to 67 means for you
From next year, the State Pension age will rise from 66 to 67, meaning millions of UK workers will have to wait longer before claiming. Your exact retirement date will depend on your birthday – sometimes by just a single day.
The change, legislated in 2014, affects men and women equally. While many people will still choose to retire earlier using a private pension, the state pension is the earliest government benefit anyone can access. Current legislation sets out a further rise to 68 between 2044 and 2046, although Labour’s upcoming review, led by Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, may recommend bringing this forward.
UK News — Latest from EyeOnLondon
Explore today’s headlines and keep reading for more context, analysis and updates.
BrewDog pub distribution drop: pubs rotate away from Punk IPA
Hundreds of venues have reshaped their taps as costs bite and drinkers try new IPAs. What it means for the UK pub trade.
Read the storyMore UK News
MTV UK ends after decades on air
An era closes for the channel that helped launch household names. What the sign-off says about changing media habits.
Read the storyMore UK News
Thorne Island restoration becomes £3m retreat
A Victorian fort off the Pembrokeshire coast is reborn with beds, a nightclub and big plans for its next chapter.
Read the storyMore UK News
For Londoners, understanding the rules is crucial for planning. Campaigners from WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) have long argued that women born in the 1950s were not properly informed of earlier rises, leaving many with unexpected financial pressures.
From 6 April 2026, anyone born after 5 April 1960 will see the phased increase take effect. For example, someone born on 6 April 1960 will reach state pension age at 66 years and one month, while those born on 6 March 1961 will only qualify at 67 years, almost two years later. Dates in between rise incrementally, by a month at a time.
With a potential move to 68 still on the horizon, the best advice is to check your own eligibility through the government’s pension calculator. Knowing where you stand helps with everything from retirement planning to mortgage decisions.
For more essential UK news, from pensions and housing to politics and daily life, stay connected with EyeOnLondon.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
