The State Pension is an important source of income for millions of people across the UK. Its annual review is one of the changes that can affect retirement planning and household finances. This guide looks at the background to the 2027 update, who it may affect and where to find further guidance.
The full basic and new State Pension rise by 3.9% from April 2027.
The Government confirmed the 2027/28 increase on 28th October 2026. The new weekly rates are shown below.
A week, up from £241.30
A week, up from £184.90
Weekly guarantee for a single person, up from April 2027
What is changing from April 2027?
The annual uprating changes the full basic and new State Pension rates. The Government confirmed the figures following its statutory review, and the increase is now set for the 2027/28 tax year.
Important distinction
The confirmed increase applies to the State Pension rates. Your own payment still depends on your individual entitlement. Private and workplace pensions are separate.
Your own State Pension amount may differ
The figures above are the full weekly rates, not a guaranteed payment for everyone. Your entitlement depends on your National Insurance record and may also include a protected payment or Additional State Pension.
Why is the State Pension increasing by 3.9%?
The triple lock compares three measures each year. The highest determines the annual increase to the basic and new State Pension.
Average earnings growth was the highest measure. The 2027/28 rates mainly take effect from 12th April 2027. Some other State Pension elements, including Additional State Pension, will rise by 3.5%.
Who will be affected by the increase?
Basic and new State Pension recipients
The uprating applies to the relevant State Pension rates. Your own amount depends on your entitlement and National Insurance record.
People with workplace or private pensions
These pensions are separate. They do not automatically increase by the same percentage as the State Pension.
What about Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that can top up the income of people over State Pension age. The standard minimum guarantee is increasing alongside the State Pension.
Could you qualify?
You may be eligible even if you already receive some State Pension. Income, savings, housing costs and personal circumstances are considered. Check the GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator if you think you may qualify.
Will tax affect what pensioners actually receive?
The State Pension remains taxable. A new Pension Tax Allowance starts on 6th April 2027 to reduce the tax impact for eligible people whose income is affected by the full new State Pension exceeding the standard Personal Allowance.
Eligible people with income up to £13,037 receive the full allowance. It tapers between £13,037 and £13,319 and is withdrawn above that level. HMRC will apply it automatically. It does not increase the standard Personal Allowance.
When will the new State Pension rates start?
12th April 2027
The new rates mainly take effect from this date. The day your payment changes depends on your normal State Pension payment schedule.
What should pensioners do now?
1. Check your State Pension forecast
If you have not reached State Pension age, check your forecast and National Insurance record.
2. Review your payment
If you already receive the State Pension, check your payment information when the new rates take effect.
3. Check Pension Credit
If you are on a low income, check whether you could qualify, even if you already receive some State Pension.
Frequently asked questions
How we checked this guide: We checked the confirmed rates against the written statement to Parliament on 28th October 2026 and the tax details against HMRC guidance. This is general information, not individual financial or tax advice.
Related State Pension and retirement guides
Pension Tax Allowance starts on 6th April 2027 →
Find out who qualifies for the new tax reduction, how the income limits work and whether you need to contact HMRC.
State Pension triple lock changes planned for April 2030 →
Read about the proposed future changes to the triple lock and what they could mean for current and future pensioners.