State Pension
The State Pension is a regular payment made to you by the government once you reach State Pension age. There are 2 types of State Pension and the one you receive will depend on your date of birth and gender. Both State Pensions are based on your previous National Insurance contribution record.
What types of State Pensions are there?
The new State Pension came into effect in 2016, replacing the basic State Pension which existed before it. Which pension applies to you will depend on whether you reached State Pension age before the new State Pension came into force (see the table below).
What State Pension would I claim?
Use our chart to find out which State Pension you should claim:
| Gender | Date of birth | Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Female | Before 6 April 1953 | Basic State Pension |
| Female | After 5 April 1953 | New State Pension |
| Male | Before 6 April 1951 | Basic State Pension |
| Male | After 5 April 1951 | New State Pension |
Why are there 2 State Pensions?
The New State Pension was introduced in 2016 to replace the basic State Pension. To prevent confusion, those already qualified for the basic State Pension continue to receive it, and only new claimants receive the new State Pension. Eventually the basic State Pension will be phased out completely.
When will I reach State Pension age?
From Thursday 6 December 2018, you can no longer claim your State Pension at 65. Check when you'll receive your State Pension on GOV.UK.
Check your State Pension age
Use the government's State Pension calculator to find out your State Pension age.
You're entitled to claim your State Pension when you reach State Pension age, but it will not be paid to you automatically. A few months before you reach State Pension age you will receive a letter with your options and you will have the choice to claim or to defer and receive higher payments in the future instead.
Need to speak to someone?
If you need more information, you can contact the Age UK advice line on 0800 055 6112. We're here 8am to 7pm, every day of the year.
For pension advice, call the Pensions Advisory Service on 0300 123 1047.