New to this? Have a read of What is a pension? first. It covers the basics from scratch in a few minutes.
What it is
The State Pension is a regular payment from the government once you reach State Pension age. It's not a pot of money with your name on it. Instead, every year you work and pay National Insurance builds up your right to it.
In 2026/27, the full new State Pension is £241.30 a week. That's about £12,548 a year. Under the government's triple lock, it goes up each April by whichever is highest: earnings growth, inflation or 2.5%.
How you build it up
Each year you pay or get credited with National Insurance counts as a qualifying year. You usually need:
- 35 qualifying years for the full amount
- at least 10 qualifying years to get anything at all.
If you're employed and earn above a certain level, every year counts automatically. You can also get credits for years when you're not working, for example if you're claiming certain benefits or caring for a child or someone who's ill.
When you can get it
State Pension age is rising from 66 to 67 between 2026 and 2028. Under current law, it rises to 68 between 2044 and 2046, and the government has said it could rise sooner. For anyone starting work now, it's likely to be later than for their parents.
Gaps in your record
If you've got gaps, for example from time abroad or a year with low earnings, you can sometimes fill them by paying voluntary National Insurance. You can usually go back up to six years. It's worth checking your record before you pay anything, because not every gap needs filling.
Check your forecast
You can check your State Pension forecast and National Insurance record online in a few minutes, through GOV.UK or the HMRC app. It shows how much you're on track for and when you can get it.
Why it isn't enough on its own
About £12,500 a year is a useful base, but most people want more than that in retirement. That's where your workplace pension comes in, with your employer and tax relief adding to what you pay. Our pension calculator shows what yours could grow to.
Common questions
How much is the State Pension?
The full new State Pension is £241.30 a week in 2026/27, or about £12,548 a year. What you get depends on your National Insurance record.
How many years do I need for a full State Pension?
Usually 35 qualifying years of National Insurance. You need at least 10 to get any State Pension.
When will I get my State Pension?
It depends on when you were born. It's rising to 67 between 2026 and 2028, and to 68 between 2044 and 2046 under current law. Check your exact date on GOV.UK.
Sources
We checked this guide against these sources on 13 October 2026. Rules and allowances can change, so check the latest position before you act.
- GOV.UK: The new State Pension, what you'll get
- GOV.UK: The new State Pension, eligibility
- GOV.UK: State Pension age timetable
- GOV.UK: Check your State Pension forecast
- GOV.UK: Voluntary National Insurance
This guide is general information, not personal financial advice. Read our full disclaimer.