The UK State Pension will rise to £230.25 per week in April 2025. This 4.1% increase will benefit millions of retirees and ensure that pensioners keep up with inflation and wage growth under the triple lock policy.
You must have reached the State Pension age (currently 66 years old for men and women) to receive the full new State Pension. You also need at least 35 qualifying years of National Insurance (NI) contributions. You will receive a proportional pension amount if you have between 10 and 34 years of NI contributions.
Those with fewer than 10 years of NI contributions will not qualify for a State Pension. You can view your NI record online via the UK government portal to see how many years you have accumulated. If you have gaps in your NI record, you can boost your pension by making voluntary contributions.
Buying back missing NI years is around £824 per year (Class 3 NI contributions). This increases pension payments for life. If you’re on a low income, Pension Credit can top up your earnings.
Guarantee Credit increases weekly income to £201.05 for singles and £306.85 for couples. Savings Credit provides extra payments for those with modest savings.
State pension increase for 2025
A pension increase provides more financial security in retirement. However, it is still essential to plan beyond just the State Pension. Workplace pensions, private pensions, investments, savings, and budgeting can all help prepare for a better retirement.
You’re on the old State Pension system if you reached the State Pension age before April 6, 2016. The 2025 rate for the Basic State Pension is £157.45 per week. Additional Pension entitlements depend on NI contributions.
Not all pensioners will receive the full £230.25 per week. Only those with 35 full years of NI contributions will get the full amount. Your payments will automatically increase in April 2025 if you already receive the State Pension.
New claimants who qualify will receive the updated rate. You can retire before the State Pension age, but you will need private savings or workplace pensions to support yourself until you qualify. The State Pension counts as taxable income, so if your total earnings exceed the Personal Allowance (£12,570 for 2025), you may need to pay income tax.
If you move abroad, you can still claim your UK State Pension. However, whether it increases annually depends on the country in which you reside.
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