What is my State Pension age?
Your State Pension age does more than decide when your pension starts. It decides whether you claim PIP or Attendance Allowance, and that difference can be worth a mobility component you can never get later.
What this tool does not do
- It does not make a decision. Only the DWP, your council or the NHS can do that.
- It applies the current legislated timetable. State Pension age is reviewed periodically and the rise to 68 has no confirmed date.
- It does not calculate how much State Pension you will get, which depends on your National Insurance record.
- It is an estimate based on published rules and 2026/27 rates, not advice.
Common questions
What is the State Pension age right now?
It is 66 for anyone born before 6 April 1960. It then rises gradually to 67 for people born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961, and is 67 for everyone born on or after 6 March 1961. A further rise to 68 is legislated but the timing is under review.
Why does my State Pension age decide which benefit I claim?
It is the dividing line between PIP and Attendance Allowance. Under State Pension age you claim PIP, which is scored on points and includes a mobility component worth up to £80.00 a week. At or over it you claim Attendance Allowance, which has no mobility component.
Should I claim PIP before I reach State Pension age?
If you are close to it and already have difficulties, yes, it is usually worth claiming PIP first. An existing PIP award can continue past State Pension age, including the mobility component, which you could never gain by claiming Attendance Allowance instead. Once you pass State Pension age without a PIP award, that door closes.
Can I get the State Pension automatically?
No. The State Pension is not paid automatically, you have to claim it. You should get an invitation letter about four months before you reach State Pension age, but if it does not arrive you can still claim.