The State Pension is a regular payment provided by the government once you reach the State Pension age, which is currently set at 66 years old. It serves as a financial support system for retirees, ensuring a stable income during later years.
Who is eligible for the State Pension?
Anyone in the UK can receive a State Pension, but you must have made sufficient National Insurance contributions. To qualify for the minimum State Pension, you need at least 10 years of contributions. To receive the full amount, you need 35 years of contributions.
How much will I receive?
The amount you receive depends on your National Insurance record. As of now:
The full ‘new’ State Pension pays £221.20 per week (equivalent to £11,502 annually).
If you were born before 6 April 1951 (for men) or 6 April 1953 (for women), you will receive the ‘basic’ State Pension, which can be up to £169.50 per week (£8,814 per year).
Some people may also qualify for an additional State Pension if they contributed to a specific scheme.
How do I qualify for a full State Pension?
To get the maximum payout, you must have 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions. A qualifying year means you:
Worked and paid National Insurance through an employer
Were self-employed and paid Class 2 National Insurance contributions
Received National Insurance credits (such as if you were unemployed or a carer)
Made voluntary National Insurance contributions
If you have at least 10 years of contributions, but fewer than 35, you will receive a partial State Pension.
Will the State Pension amount change over time?
The State Pension age is set to rise in the future. The government has announced plans to gradually increase it to 67 between 2026 and 2028, and further increases are expected.
The UK government ensures the State Pension keeps pace with the cost of living by using the triple lock system. This means the pension increases each year by the highest of the following:
Inflation rate
Average earnings growth
2.5%
This system is designed to maintain the pension’s value over time.
Deferring the State Pension
You don’t have to claim your State Pension as soon as you reach the eligible age. If you defer, your payments will increase when you do claim. The increase depends on how long you delay.
How to Claim the State Pension
The State Pension is not paid automatically—you must claim it. You’ll receive a letter from the government before reaching State Pension age with instructions on how to apply online, by phone, or by post.
Can You Still Work While Receiving the State Pension?
Yes, you can continue working while receiving the State Pension. However, depending on your income, you may still need to pay taxes on it.
State Pension and Tax
The State Pension counts as taxable income. If you have other sources of income (such as a private pension or part-time work), you may have to pay tax if your total income exceeds the personal allowance threshold.