For millions of UK workers, retirement planning is built around one number: the State Pension age. It determines when regular pension payments begin and often shapes decisions about work, savings, and health in later life. Now, with the State Pension age set to rise again, many people are asking an urgent question: who will be affected first, and how soon?
While the change will not happen overnight, its impact will be felt unevenly — with some age groups facing a longer wait for their pension than others.
What Is the State Pension Age Right Now?
The State Pension age is currently:
- 66 for both men and women
This age applies to anyone reaching State Pension age now and in the immediate future. Payments are not means-tested and are based on National Insurance contribution history.
Administration of the State Pension is handled by Department for Work and Pensions.
What Change Has Been Confirmed?
Under existing legislation, the State Pension age is scheduled to rise from 66 to 67.
Current plan:
- The rise to 67 will be phased in
- It will affect people born in the mid-to-late 1960s
- The increase will not apply to everyone at once
The government has also confirmed that further rises to 68 are under review, though no final decision has been made.
Who Will Be Affected First?
The first people affected by the next rise are those born after April 1960, with the most immediate impact on people born in the mid-1960s.
In practical terms:
- Some people will see their pension age increase by months
- Others may need to wait a full extra year
- The exact impact depends on date of birth
Those closest to retirement when the change takes effect will feel the impact most sharply, as they have less time to adjust plans.
Why Is the State Pension Age Rising?
The government cites several long-term pressures:
- People are living longer
- The ratio of workers to pensioners is shrinking
- State Pension spending is rising rapidly
- Public finances face long-term strain
According to officials, increasing the pension age is intended to keep the system financially sustainable for future generations.
What About a Rise to 68?
Beyond the move to 67, the government is reviewing whether to accelerate a further rise to 68.
Key points:
- No final decision has been made
- Any move would require legislation
- Long notice periods are expected
- Younger workers would be most affected
At present, there is no confirmed date for a rise to 68, but it remains a live policy discussion.
How the Change Will Affect Retirement Plans
For those affected, a higher State Pension age can mean:
- Working longer than planned
- Relying more heavily on workplace or private pensions
- A gap between stopping work and receiving the State Pension
- Increased pressure on savings
People in physically demanding jobs and those with health conditions are likely to feel the impact more acutely.
Groups Most at Risk of Struggle
Experts highlight several groups who may be disproportionately affected:
- Workers in manual or physically demanding roles
- People with long-term health conditions
- Those with limited private pension savings
- Renters with higher living costs
For these groups, delaying access to the State Pension can create real financial stress.
How the UK Compares Internationally
| Country | State Pension Age |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 66 (rising to 67) |
| France | 64 |
| Germany | 67 |
| United States | 66–67 |
| Australia | 67 |
The UK is broadly in line with other developed nations, though public resistance to rises remains strong.
What People Approaching Retirement Should Do Now
If you are in your late 50s or early 60s, preparation is essential.
Key steps include:
- Checking your State Pension forecast
- Reviewing workplace and private pensions
- Considering part-time or flexible work options
- Building a financial buffer for any gap years
- Monitoring government announcements closely
Small adjustments made early can reduce the impact later.
Questions People Are Asking About the State Pension Age Rise
1. Is the State Pension age changing right now?
No. It remains 66 at present.
2. When will it rise to 67?
It will be phased in for people born in the mid-1960s.
3. Who is affected first?
Those born after April 1960.
4. Will everyone have the same pension age?
No. It depends on date of birth.
5. Is a rise to 68 confirmed?
No. It is under review only.
6. Will I get much notice?
Historically, changes are announced years in advance.
7. Can I still retire earlier?
Yes, but without the State Pension.
8. Does working longer increase the State Pension?
No, but it can boost private pension savings.
9. Is the State Pension means-tested?
No.
10. Could the government delay the rise?
It is possible, but not guaranteed.
11. Are women affected differently?
No. Pension ages are now equal.
12. Where can I check my exact pension age?
Through your official State Pension forecast.
What to Watch Next
- Results of the government’s pension age review
- Budget statements and fiscal updates
- Election manifestos and policy pledges
- Any legislation proposing further changes
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