The UK's State Pension age is currently scheduled to rise from 66 to 67 starting in 2026, with the increase expected to be fully implemented for both men and women by 2028. Certain individuals, born between specific dates, will experience this change as early as next year.

The Pensions Act 2014 fast-tracked the increase in the State Pension age from 66 to 67 by eight years. Under these modifications, individuals born between March 6, 1961, and April 5, 1977, will be eligible to claim the State Pension once they turn 67.

A subsequent increase from 67 to 68 is slated to occur between 2044 and 2046, reports the Manchester Evening News. Those affected by these changes will receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) well in advance.

Letters are typically dispatched to individuals at least two months prior to them reaching state pension age. It's crucial to stay updated on these impending changes, especially if you have a retirement plan in place. A review of the proposed increase to 68 is expected before the end of this decade.

Any suggested changes must receive parliamentary approval before they can be enacted into law. The Conservative government had initially planned for it to take place two years after the general election, which would have been 2026.

Your State Pension age is the earliest age at which you can start receiving your State Pension. This may differ from the age at which you can access a workplace or personal pension.

The online tool on GOV.UK is available for individuals of all ages to determine their State Pension age, a crucial part of retirement planning. The State Pension age tool can be utilised to find out when you will attain State Pension age and your eligibility age for Pension Credit.

You can verify your State Pension age online here.