The existing state pension age is 66 in the UK, although it is on course to stretch to 67 from 2026 to 2028. This year, anyone born in 1959 can start claiming their UK state pension payments.
Many people approaching 66 may not be aware that the Department does not automatically pay them the state pension for Work and Pensions (DWP) and needs to be claimed.
The maximum state pension payment paid is £221.20 a week, but some Brits may choose to defer their claim.
DWP guidance says: “You do not get your State Pension automatically – you have to claim it. You should get a letter no later than two months before you reach State Pension age, telling you what to do.”
DWP says if someone does want to defer their payments they do not have do anything.
By deferring a state pension, retirees can boost their weekly income; they will need to have deferred for at least nine weeks.
For every five weeks someone defers their state pension they get a one percent increase. So if you defer for a year you get over 10%.
If you are only a basic state pension, you will be getting £169.50, so deferring it will give you £17.62 per week extra.
If you’re over the age of 73, you’ll be receiving or eligible for the ‘old’ State Pension; if you were born on or after these dates, you’ll claim the new State Pension instead.
You can claim the State Pension online, by phone, or by post and you can make your claim four months before you turn state pension age.
- You will get a state penion invitation letter: This is sent to from the Pension Service around four months before you reach State Pension age.
- Provide your details including your National Insurance number: You will need your NI number to claim the state pension.
- Provide other information. You may need to provide evidence of your date of birth, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, and employment details.
- Submit your claim: You can submit your claim online, by phone, or by post and you can claim online at GOV.UK or by calling the Pension Service claim line on 0800 731 7898.
You can ask for your claim to be backdated up to 12 months after you reach State Pension age, and you can still work and receive a state Pension.
