The retirement landscape in the UK is changing fast. With longer life expectancy and increasing pressure on public funds, the government is accelerating changes to the state pension age. For many, the dream of retiring at 67—or even earlier—might no longer be realistic. Whether you’re close to retirement or decades away, it’s important to know how these shifts could impact your future.
Changes
Right now, the UK state pension age is 66 for both men and women. That’s already set to rise to 67 by 2028, and then to 68 by 2046. But that long-term timeline may not hold. The latest state pension review, published in 2023, hinted at speeding up the move to age 68—potentially bringing it forward to the mid-2030s.
Here’s where things currently stand:
Planned State Pension Age Timeline
| Birth Year | State Pension Age | Estimated Eligibility Year |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1960 | 66 | Already eligible or near |
| 1960–1965 | 67 | Between 2027 and 2034 |
| After 1966 | 68 (or later) | 2034 and beyond (may change) |
These changes aren’t final for everyone born after 1966, but they do show the likely direction of future policies.
Reasons
So why is this happening? Several big trends are putting pressure on the current pension model:
- People are living longer, so pensions must last longer
- The working-age population is shrinking, reducing National Insurance contributions
- Government budgets are stretched, and pensions are one of the biggest expenses
To make the system more sustainable, the government wants to keep the proportion of adult life spent in retirement steady. That means retiring later to match our longer lifespans.
Impact
If you were born after April 1970, you’ll likely be affected by the higher pension age. The younger you are, the more likely it is that you’ll retire at 68 or older.
This can be especially tough for people in physically demanding jobs or lower-income workers who depend more on the state pension. Adding a few extra working years may not be easy for everyone.
Prepare
The best way to deal with these changes is to take control of your financial future. Here’s how:
- Start saving early: Use workplace pensions, ISAs, and private savings to build up retirement income
- Track your pension: Use the government’s online tool to view your state pension forecast
- Ease into retirement: Think about cutting hours gradually rather than retiring all at once
- Seek advice: A financial adviser can help you make sense of shifting rules and tailor a plan
Planning
Raising the pension age has effects far beyond just your income. It could change your whole approach to life after work. Here are a few areas where you may need to adjust:
- Mortgage planning: You might still be paying off your home at 68
- Health costs: Private insurance or long-term care planning may become more important
- Job changes: You might need to learn new skills or switch careers as you age
- Lifestyle: Consider how you’ll stay healthy and active during those extra working years
Employers may also need to rethink their strategies—offering more flexible work options, training older workers, and supporting employee wellness.
The message is clear: the age you retire in the UK is not set in stone. But that doesn’t mean you can’t retire well. With careful planning, smart saving, and a willingness to adapt, you can take charge of your retirement—no matter when it comes.
FAQs
What is the current UK state pension age?
It is 66 for both men and women as of 2025.
When will the pension age rise to 67?
Between 2026 and 2028, per government plans.
Could state pension age go up to 68 earlier?
Yes, possibly by the mid-2030s.
Who is most affected by the changes?
People born after April 1970 will feel the biggest impact.
How can I check my pension forecast?
Use the UK government’s online pension service.
