Triple Lock System Update

The triple lock system ensures the state pension is not overtaken by inflation or wage increases.

The new flat-rate state pension for those who reached state pension age after April 2016 will rise to £250. 70 a week, up from £241. 30 a week, in April 2027.

The old basic state pension for those who reached state pension age before April 2016 will increase by £374. 40 to £9,989. 20 a year.

Under the triple lock system, the state pension increases each April in line with whichever of three measures is the highest: inflation, average wage growth, or 2. 5% - whichever is the highest.

The rise from 66 to 67 began in April 2026 and will continue until at least 2044-2046 for those born on or after April 5, 1977.

Charities have warned that it will disproportionately affect areas of the UK where life expectancy is lower and those on lower incomes.

The government review is considering whether to delay the second phase, which would currently take the state pension age to 68 between 2044 and 2046.

State pension age starts rising to 67 - here's how much you get and when

Future pensioners to be worse off, government warns

Depending on their overall income, those above retirement age may also be entitled to pension credit, external in addition to the basic state pension.

Pension credit increased by 4. 8% in April 2026.

If your income is above the stated limits, you may still be eligible for pension credit if you have a disability or care for someone.

Anyone who qualifies for pension credit may also be entitled to other financial support, including housing benefit, a reduction in council tax, help with heating costs and the warm home discount scheme.

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