LONDON, UK – Millions of working Britons are being urged to review their retirement plans as the UK government prepares to raise the State Pension age from 66 to 67, beginning in 2026. The increase, which is scheduled to roll out over a two-year period through 2028, will affect people born on or after April 1960 — many of whom may now need to work longer than expected.

What’s Changing – And When?

According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the change has been part of legislation since the Pensions Act 2014, but it’s now moving into effect.

Current State Pension age: 66
New State Pension age: 67 (gradually from 2026–2028)
A further rise to 68 is under review and could be brought forward from 2044.

This change affects millions currently in their 50s and early 60s, especially those planning to retire in the next few years. For many, it could mean reassessing retirement savings, adjusting work plans, or delaying lifestyle changes.

👥 Who Will Be Affected?

The rise will impact individuals born between April 6, 1960, and April 5, 1977. Rather than a fixed date, the transition will be phased in gradually. This means your personal State Pension age depends on your date of birth. To check your eligibility, the government offers a State Pension age calculator.

Experts Warn: Lower-Income Workers May Be Hit Hardest

According to Jonathan Cribb, Associate Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), the age rise could disproportionately affect low-income individuals:

£1,768 Monthly Childcare Support Now Available from DWP: Here Are Details, Eligibility & How to Claim

“It is poorer people in their mid-60s who are hit most by State Pension age increases. They often have limited savings or private pensions to fall back on.”

The warning comes at a time when living costs continue to strain retirement budgets, and delaying access to pension income could deepen financial challenges for many.

Could the Pension Age Rise to 68 Sooner?

The government has confirmed it will reassess the timeline for raising the State Pension age to 68 by the end of this decade. While current legislation sets that change for 2044–2046, a review in 2026 may bring it forward, potentially impacting people born in the late 1970s or early 1980s.

Any change would come with a 10-year notice period, but pension planners are advised to keep an eye on policy updates to avoid being caught off guard.

Maximize Your Pension: NI Contributions Still Matter

As part of the wider State Pension reform, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has launched a digital service that allows people to check and fill gaps in their National Insurance (NI) record — which could significantly boost pension payouts.

Since 2024, more than 3.7 million people have accessed the State Pension forecast tool. Over 10,000 payments totaling £12.5 million have been made through the new system, allowing individuals to voluntarily top up contributions dating back to 2006.

Men born after April 6, 1951, and women born after April 6, 1953, have until April 5, 2025, to backfill missing NI years, which can enhance their New State Pension eligibility and payment amount.

To receive the full State Pension, you need 35 qualifying years of NI contributions. At least 10 years are needed to receive any pension at all.

Is It Worth Buying Back Missing Years?

Alice Haine, personal finance expert at Bestinvest, urges caution:

“You don’t want to pay for more years than you need — you won’t get that money back. But for many, topping up could be one of the best retirement investments they ever make.”

NI credits may also be available for those who were unemployed, caring for family, or off work due to illness — so be sure to check your entitlement before making voluntary payments