State Pension Age Changes UK: Are Brits Required To Work Until 70? What You Need To Know

The UK state pension age is under scrutiny as reports suggest it could rise to 70 by the 2040s, sparking concerns among Brits about working longer.

With the government facing fiscal pressures and an ageing population, recent discussions and policy reviews indicate potential changes to the pension system.

Current State Pension Age and Scheduled Increases

The state pension age in the UK is currently 66, but it is set to rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028 for those born on or after 6 April 1960, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

This aligns with the Office for Budget Responsibility's (OBR) assessment, which notes that the increase will reduce spending on pensioner benefits by £10.9 billion ($14.7 billion).

The change affects approximately 8 million people born between 1960 and 1968, who will need to wait an additional year to claim their pension, currently valued at £11,502 ($15,427) annually for the full new state pension.

A further rise to 68 is scheduled for 2044-2046, impacting those born after 1977, though posts on X suggest the government may accelerate this to the 2030s.

@PolitlcsUK posted on 23 January 2023, 'The Government has PRIVATELY agreed to raise the state pension age to 68 to start in the 2030s, instead of the scheduled change in 2046.'

Proposals for a Pension Age of 70

Recent reports indicate the state pension age could climb to 70 by the 2040s to address increasing life expectancy and fiscal sustainability.

The Newspage reported on 17 August 2025 that experts warn of a potential rise to 70, driven by the need to balance the triple lock policy, which ensures pensions rise by the highest of inflation, earnings, or 2.5%.

This policy, while popular, strains public finances, with pension costs projected to reach £150 billion ($201,075) by 2030.

The Centre for Social Justice suggests that without reform, the pension age may need to increase further to maintain affordability.

On X, @sixthgalaxy posted on 17 August 2025, 'State pension age "to rise to 70" as UK warned the change is coming.'

However, no official government confirmation of a mandated age of 70 exists, and such a change would require legislation following public consultation.

Implications for Workers and Society

Raising the state pension age to 70 could significantly impact workers, particularly those in physically demanding jobs or with health issues.

Professionals and students planning careers must consider delayed retirement, with financial advisors urging younger workers to boost private pension savings, estimated at £160,000 ($214,522) for a comfortable retirement.

The change also raises equity concerns, as life expectancy varies by region and socioeconomic status, those in deprived areas may not live long enough to claim pensions.

The government's 2023 review of the pension age, delayed until after the general election, is expected to clarify timelines by early 2026.

Public sentiment on X reflects unease, with @sueatcraven posting on 17 August 2025, 'Changes started in 2010 & will continue. The rises to 68 are likely 2b accelerated.'

Trade unions have called for protections for low-income workers. Employers may need to adapt workplaces for older staff. The debate over the state pension age highlights tensions between economic necessity and social fairness.

As the government navigates these challenges, Brits face an uncertain future, balancing longer careers with financial planning.