IMPORTANT FACTS- New State Pension
- This scheme replaces the previous multi-tiered pension scheme (basic and additional state pension). The new state pension replaces the current scheme for those reaching state pension age on or after April 2016.
- The new state pension is £175.20 per week, but the amount received depends on your National Insurance record; to get the full amount you’ll usually need 10 qualifying years.
- A ‘qualifying year’ is a year in which you have earned enough to pay National Insurance contributions. Qualifying years can be earned through “NI credits” if you have been a parent or carer, or claiming certain benefits.
- You’ll need 35 qualifying years to get the new full State Pension.
- The new State Pension can be deferred and doesn’t have to be claimed as soon as state pension age is reached.
- You can still get a State Pension if you have other income, such as a personal or workplace pension.
IMPORTANT FACTS- State Pension Age
- This is the earliest age at which you can claim your State Pension: This is currently 65 for men and women, but will increase to 66 in October 2020. This will then rise to 67 between 2026-28.
- Below is table that shows state pension ages based on date of birth. You can use the govenrment’s calculator to see what you will be able to claim state pension here.
| Your date of birth | How the proposals affect you |
|---|---|
| On or before 5 April 1970 | No change |
| Between 6 April 1970 and 5 April 1978 | Your State Pension age is currently 67. It would increase to between 67 years and 1 month, and 68 years, depending on your date of birth |
| After 6 April 1978 | No change. Your State Pension age remains 68 |
Pension Credit
- There are different types of Pension Credit which top up older people’s incomes to a minimum level. You are likely to get a higher level of income if you have made some of your own savings towards your retirement. Pension credit for a single person tops up income to £173.75 per week. Pension credit for couples tops up income to £265.20 per week for both partners, together.
- Pensioners are also entitled to other discounts and benefits such as free bus travel, cold weather payment, winter fuel payment, and free TV licences for those aged 75 or older.
Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is given to help with personal care if you are aged 65 years or older and physically or mentally disabled. It’s paid at 2 different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability. You could get £59.70 or £89.15 a week.
| NUMBERS TO REMEMBER: – State Pension for a single person is at least £175.20 per week Current State Pension Age is 65 for both women and men |