What happens if I want to claim my State Pension later?
Find clear, straightforward answers to common questions about pensions, retirement planning, investments, fees and charges, and the services we provide.
You don’t have to claim as soon as you reach State Pension age. If you defer your State Pension, your weekly amount usually increases for every week you put off claiming, as long as you defer for at least nine weeks. The increase is added to your State Pension when you eventually claim.
Deferring might suit you if you’re still working or have other income, but it won’t be right for everyone. It’s important to consider your health, your need for income now versus later, and how deferring interacts with any other pensions you hold.
Also In this section:
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Are voluntary NI contributions refundable if my circumstances change?
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Can voluntary NI contributions increase my State Pension immediately?
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What happens if I overpay voluntary NI contributions?
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Is there a time limit for topping up missing National Insurance years?
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Is it worth paying voluntary National Insurance contributions?
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Why is the State Pension age increasing?
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What happens if I want to claim my State Pension later?
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Are there exceptions to the State Pension age rules?
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Is the State Pension age changing in 2026?
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How does my date of birth affect my State Pension age?
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What is the new State Pension age for men and women?
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Will the government increase the State Pension age again?
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When will the next State Pension age rise happen?
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Does the State Pension count towards my retirement income?
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Does the triple lock mean the State Pension always rises faster than inflation?
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What happens to the triple lock during periods of unusually high wage growth?
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Can the government change or remove the triple lock at any time?
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Does the triple lock apply if you live abroad?
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Does the triple lock affect how much National Insurance I need to pay?
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Will the triple lock increase apply automatically, or do I need to claim it?
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How does the triple lock impact long-term State Pension affordability?
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Does taking my pension early affect my State Pension?
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Is the State Pension taxable?
