State Pension UK
Complete guide to the UK State Pension system in 2026/27. Understand eligibility, amounts, claiming, and retirement planning.
The UK State Pension System
The UK State Pension provides a foundation of retirement income for eligible individuals. There are two main types: the new State Pension (introduced in 2016) and the old basic State Pension. Most people reaching State Pension age now receive the new State Pension.
2026/27 State Pension at a Glance
New State Pension vs Basic State Pension
New State Pension
Introduced in 2016, based on career-average earnings. More generous than the old system.
- • £230.30 per week (2026)
- • Based on NI contributions
- • Up to 35 years of credits
- • Triple lock protection
- • Most people get this
Basic State Pension
The old system, being phased out. Based on the best 30 years of contributions.
- • £156.20 per week (2026)
- • Category A, B, C, D rates
- • 30 years minimum
- • Being phased out
- • Fewer people qualify now
Which Pension Do You Get?
If you reached State Pension age after April 2016, you get the new State Pension. If you were already receiving the basic State Pension when the new system started, you keep it. People reaching State Pension age now get the new, more generous pension.
State Pension Age
Current State Pension Age Timeline
State Pension Age Changes
The State Pension age is gradually increasing to 68. If you're affected by these changes, you may be able to claim Pension Credit to top up your income while you wait. The increase is happening slowly to give people time to adjust their retirement plans.
Eligibility and Qualifying Years
New State Pension Eligibility
To get any new State Pension, you need at least 10 years of National Insurance contributions or credits. For the full amount, you need 35 years (or 30 years if born before 6 April 1961).
What Counts as Qualifying Years?
Various periods count towards your State Pension, not just paid employment.
- • Paid employment (Class 1 National Insurance)
- • Self-employment (Class 2/4)
- • Voluntary Class 3 contributions
- • Unemployment credits
- • Maternity/paternity credits
- • Caring for children or ill relatives
- • Home Responsibilities Protection (pre-2010)
Gap Filling
If you have gaps in your National Insurance record, you can fill them with voluntary contributions. This is especially useful for career breaks or periods of low earnings.
Claiming Your State Pension
When to Claim
You can claim State Pension from your State Pension age, but you don't have to. Delaying beyond your State Pension age increases your weekly amount.
- • 1% increase per week for first 5 years
- • 2% increase per week thereafter
- • Maximum 10.8% increase if delayed 5 years
- • No upper age limit for claiming
How to Claim
Contact the Pension and Disability Carers Service 4 months before your State Pension age to start the process.
- • Call 0800 731 0469
- • Use online services if you have a personal account
- • Can claim up to 4 months in advance
- • Payments start from the Monday following your claim
What to Bring
You'll need identification and possibly proof of National Insurance contributions.
- • National Insurance number
- • Proof of identity (passport/driving licence)
- • P45/P60 if recently left work
- • Bank details for payments
- • Marriage certificate if surname changed
State Pension and Other Benefits
Pension Credit
Means-tested top-up for those with low income in retirement. Can significantly increase your weekly income.
Housing Benefit
Help with rent or mortgage interest if you're on a low income. Available even if you own your home.
State Pension vs Personal Pension
State Pension provides a foundation income, but most people need additional savings. The average State Pension covers only 20-30% of pre-retirement income. Personal pensions, workplace schemes, and other investments are usually needed for a comfortable retirement.
State Pension and Divorce
Pension Sharing on Divorce
Since April 2016, State Pension can be shared equally on divorce, similar to pensions. This affects both new State Pension and basic State Pension entitlements.
How Pension Sharing Works
Check Your State Pension
Use our free retirement timeline calculator to see when you'll reach State Pension age and project your total retirement income.