The UK Government is currently reviewing plans to bring forward the state pension age change from 2044-2046, with some speculating that the decision may have already been made to raise the age to 68. This change would affect millions of people in the UK who are currently planning for retirement. According to a report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, a 1-year increase in state pension age would reduce the lifetime cost of the state pension by approximately £2.7 billion.
While no official decision has been made, some believe that the Government has already made up its mind on the move to 68. A senior Government source reportedly said that 'the writing is on the wall' for an increase in state pension age. However, other sources have disputed this claim, stating that the review is ongoing and no final decision has been reached.
The current state pension age in the UK is 66, which is scheduled to rise to 67 by 2044-2046. If the review were to bring forward the change to 68, it would mean that millions of people in the UK would have to wait longer to receive their state pension. This could have significant implications for those planning to retire early or rely on their state pension for income.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that a review of the state pension age is underway, but no further details have been released. The DWP has stated that any changes to the state pension age would be implemented with a review expected in the coming years. However, this review may not provide clarity on the issue until much later.