**DWP Announces Changes to State Pension Age, Starting in 2026**
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has publicly confirmed that significant changes to the state pension age are set to begin next year, affecting millions approaching retirement across the United Kingdom. This adjustment, which will be introduced gradually, marks a notable shift in the government’s approach to state pensions as life expectancy and social demographics continue to evolve.
At present, both men and women become eligible to receive the state pension at 66. However, from April 2026, the age threshold will begin a stepwise climb to 67. This reform will not happen all at once, but will unfold over a two-year period, culminating in March 2028. The move is anticipated to impact individuals born after April 1960, with the timing of when they can draw their pension incrementally delayed depending on their date of birth.
Those potentially most affected are people born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961. Depending on the specific month of their birth, their pension eligibility will be deferred by a series of months, rather than a fixed additional year. For example, someone born in May 1960 will now be able to draw their state pension at 66 years and two months, whereas a person born in February 1961 will become eligible at 66 years and 11 months. These changes mark a departure from the previous system, where the pension age increased in one-year jumps.
The DWP states that moving the pension age in this manner is aimed at creating a smoother transition, preventing a sudden cut-off that could disadvantage those just shy of qualifying under the old rules. The current rise comes on the heels of previous amendments, where the pension age for both men and women was equalised and steadily lifted from 65 to 66 between 2018 and 2020.
A government spokesperson explained, “The Pensions Act 2014 accelerated the increase from 66 to 67, bringing it forward by eight years. The phasing ensures that individuals will not face a sharp cliff-edge at a particular date, but instead will see their pension eligibility age rise incrementally by month.”
For those born after 5 April 1977, the underlying regulations already stipulate that the state pension age is 67. In addition, the government has signalled that there could be another future rise to 68, potentially taking effect from 2044 to 2046, though this is subject to review and any formal decision must receive parliamentary approval.
According to the DWP, these adjustments are based on several key factors, chief among them being projections for life expectancy. The department underlines that while the timetable from 66 to 67 remains unchanged, the schedule for a subsequent increase to 68 could be revised, pending the outcome of ongoing legislative assessments and official reviews.
The new policy comes amidst continuing scrutiny of the UK’s ageing population and the financial pressures on the state pension scheme. Many campaigners and policy experts argue that such steps are necessary to maintain the sustainability of pension funding. However, there is also concern about the impact on those working in physically demanding jobs or those with health challenges, who might find it harder to remain in employment for longer.
As the state pension age shifts upwards, the government is encouraging individuals to check their own eligibility dates using online tools provided by the DWP. This transparency is intended to give people ample time to adjust their retirement planning and make informed decisions about their futures.
While the government maintains that the changes are essential for the long-term viability of the state pension, public debate continues over the balance between economic realities and the needs of older citizens. It remains to be seen how future governments will further adapt the pension system to meet the evolving demands of society.