State Pension benefits

The State Pension is paid by the Government to all elligle pensioners, but don't expect it to fund a life of luxury or even comfort. It really is there only as a shield against poverty and to provide for the very basics of everday living. Right now, it s paid for out of current taxation ie - those paying taxes are effectively paying the pensions of those who have retired. Eligibility is based on age and the National Insurance (NI) contributions you make during your lifetime.

What's it worth?

You get a smaller basic State Pension if you haven't paid enough NI contributions of the right type. You may not get a State Pension at all if you've paid less than the minimum. But, in some cases, if you're not working, you may be credited with NI contributions or can choose to pay voluntary contributions.

The current weekly Basic State Pension is:

• £90.70 per week for a single person
• £145.05 per week for a single couple

When you can claim

From 6 April 2020, the State Pension age for women will be 65, the same as for men. Women's State Pension age will start moving gradually from 60 to 65 from 2010. This will not affect women born on or before 5 April 1950, who can still claim their State Pension at 60. Women born on or after 6 April 1955 will have a State Pension age of 65.

When you reach the State Pension age, you can claim a State Pension if you have paid or been credited with NI contributions or your husband or wife has contributed on your behalf.