UK State Pension — Complete Guide
The State Pension is a regular payment from the government that you can claim when you reach State Pension age. This guide covers eligibility, amounts, and how to claim.
New State Pension (post-2016)
The full new State Pension for 2026-27 is approximately £221.20 per week (£11,502/year). Actual amount depends on your National Insurance record.
Eligibility
- You need at least 10 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions to get any State Pension.
- You need 35 qualifying years to get the full amount.
- State Pension age is currently 66, rising to 67 by 2028, and 68 by 2046.
Triple Lock Guarantee
The State Pension rises each April by the highest of:
- Average earnings growth
- CPI inflation
- 2.5%
The triple lock has been confirmed for the 2026-27 tax year.
How to Claim
- You’ll receive a letter 4 months before reaching State Pension age.
- Claim online at gov.uk/get-state-pension
- Or phone the Pension Service to claim.
📞 Contacts
| Pension Service | 0800 731 0469 |
| Outside UK | +44 191 218 7777 |
| Textphone | 0800 731 0464 |
| Website | gov.uk/new-state-pension |
| Check State Pension Age | gov.uk/state-pension-age |
Last updated: June 2026.