People reaching State Pension age can no longer claim these benefits

People reaching State Pension age need to understand which benefits and payments they can no longer claim, as significant changes to the retirement system are now underway.

The State Pension age is increasing from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028, following a pre-planned and pre-published Department for Work and Pensions timetable. The Pensions Act 2014 brought this increase forward by eight years. For people born between April 6 1960 and March 5 1961, the increase will be phased in monthly increments. A person born on 31 July 1960, for example, will reach State Pension age at 66 years and 4 months on 30 November 2026. Those born after April 5 1969 but before April 6 1977 already had State Pension age set at 67 under the Pensions Act 2007.

The current State Pension is worth up to £241.30 per week for those on the New State Pension claimed after April 6 2016, or £184.90 each week for Category A or B pensions. To qualify for any State Pension payment, individuals need at least 10 contribution years accrued before reaching retirement age. State pensioners aged 65 and over can receive up to £7,620 added to their state pension through annuities.

According to the Department for Work and Pensions, annuity rates rose in March 2026 to 7.62 percent. A pension annuity is a lifetime payment purchased using pension pot money that continues for the rest of your life. However, the decision to purchase a pension annuity is once and for all, with selected options unable to be changed later. Annuity payments are classed as income and are subject to income tax, which could affect other state benefits claimed.

For older people approaching official retirement age, it is important to know which benefits will continue, which new ones you may now qualify for, and those you can no longer make new claims for.