Millions of UK pensioners could see their State Pension rise by £634 a year starting in April 2026, thanks to forecasted increases under the Triple Lock system. If you were born after April 5, 1951 (for men) or after April 5, 1953 (for women), you’re likely to benefit from this significant increase.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how much the boost is, why it’s happening, and what you need to do.
What Is the Triple Lock?
The Triple Lock is a UK government commitment that ensures the State Pension increases each year by the highest of:
- Inflation (Consumer Price Index – CPI)
- Average wage growth
- Or a minimum of 2.5%
This ensures that pensioners don’t lose purchasing power due to rising living costs.
What’s the Projected Increase?
The latest wage and inflation forecasts suggest a 5.3% increase to the New State Pension in April 2026. This means:
- Current full State Pension: £11,973 per year
- 5.3% increase: £634.60 annually
- New total: £12,607.60 per year
- Weekly increase: From £230.25 to £242.45
Detailed Breakdown of the Pension Boost
| Pension Element | Amount (£) | Weekly (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Full State Pension | 11,973 | 230.25 |
| Forecasted 5.3% Increase | +634.60 | +12.20 |
| Total from April 2026 | 12,607.60 | 242.45 |
Who’s Eligible for the £634 Boost?
To qualify for this increase, you must:
- Be receiving the New State Pension
- Be a man born after 5 April 1951
- Or a woman born after 5 April 1953
- Have reached the State Pension age, currently 66 (rising to 67 by March 2028)
This group automatically receives any rise determined by the Triple Lock without needing to apply.
When Will the Increase Be Applied?
- The Triple Lock increase will take effect from April 2026
- The final rate will be confirmed in autumn 2025, after earnings and inflation figures from May to July 2025 are reviewed
If current wage growth trends hold, the 5.3% forecast is highly likely.
Will This Increase Affect Taxes?
Yes, it might. The projected £12,607.60 annual pension amount would exceed the £12,570 personal tax-free allowance currently in place. That means:
- Even pensioners with no other income may now pay income tax on part of their State Pension
- If you have additional private pensions or earnings, more of your income may be taxable
It’s crucial to review your tax situation as April 2026 approaches.
What If Wage Growth Falls?
If wage growth or inflation drops below the current forecast:
- The Triple Lock minimum of 2.5% still guarantees a boost
- That would still result in an increase of at least £299.33 per year
The Triple Lock mechanism ensures that even in less favorable economic conditions, pensioners receive some increase.
| Details | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Eligible Birth Dates | Men: After 5 Apr 1951 Women: After 5 Apr 1953 |
| Pension Type | New State Pension |
| Projected Boost | 5.3% |
| Annual Increase | £634.60 |
| New Total Annual Pension | £12,607.60 |
| Impact on Taxes | Could exceed tax-free allowance |
| Guaranteed Minimum Increase | 2.5% (~£299.33) |
| Implementation Date | April 2026 |
What Should You Do Now?
To make the most of this pension boost:
- Check your State Pension forecast online
- Consider deferring your pension if you haven’t claimed yet – deferral increases your payments
- Ensure you have full National Insurance contributions for a full pension
- Look into Pension Credit if your income is low – it can add extra weekly support
- Prepare for potential tax changes as your pension exceeds the personal allowance
A £634 increase to the New State Pension is projected for April 2026, giving a meaningful uplift to millions of pensioners. If you were born in the eligible years, you are set to benefit automatically under the Triple Lock system.
While this rise brings welcome financial relief, it also pushes State Pension income above the tax-free threshold, potentially resulting in income tax for some.
Planning ahead—by understanding eligibility, preparing for tax, and checking your NI record—will help you make the most of this upcoming boost.
Be sure to stay informed and act early to get every penny you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Will everyone get a £634 increase?
Only those receiving the New State Pension who are eligible based on their birth year will see the full increase. Partial pensions will rise by 5.3%, but the amount added will be proportionate.
What if inflation rises more than wage growth?
If inflation (CPI) surpasses wage growth before September 2025, then the inflation rate will determine the increase. Whichever is higher is used for the Triple Lock calculation.
Will the personal allowance also increase?
As of now, the personal allowance is frozen at £12,570. If it stays the same, the increased pension could result in income tax liability for many pensioners.