Thousands of Britons unaware when they will reach state pension age – how to check when you can get payment

This includes 10 per cent of those aged 55 to 64, Standard Life’s Retirement Voice report said.

Meanwhile, thousands of people (22 per cent of respondents) have no idea how much they will get from the state pension, once they reach state pension age.

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The state pension age has increased to 66 for men and women, but further changes lie ahead, with an increase to 67 and then 68 planned for the future.

People must have reached their state pension age to be able to receive their entitlement, and this is also the Pension Credit qualifying age.

Dean Butler, Managing Director for Retail Direct at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group commented: “The state pension is set to rise by 8.5 per cent next April and remains an important part of most people’s retirement plans, but many are confused on the detail.

“Knowing when you’ll start to receive the state pension and how much you’ll get is an important part of preparing for later life as it indicates how much you’ll need to save in your private pension to meet your expected standard of living in retirement and to be able to retire when you want to.

“Being aware of your state pension entitlement and how National Insurance contributions determine the amount you'll receive could also help to avoid any nasty shocks when you reach state pension age.”

The Government has released a timetable of state pension age changes, and people can check their state pension age online via the UK Government website, although it’s important to be aware the timetable could change in the future.

To use the tool, the user needs to input their date of birth.

It will then state when a person will reach state pension age and what their state pension age itself is.

Mr Butler explained: “Men born before 6 April 1951 and women born before 6 April 1953 can claim the basic state pension now.

“If you were born on or after these dates, you’ll be eligible for the new state pension when you reach your state pension age.

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“But state pension age is regularly reviewed to take into account things like affordability and life expectancy.

“The state pension age is currently 66 but it is set to rise to 67 by 2028.

“Remember that modern, flexible workplace and personal pension plans normally let you start taking your money from the age of 55, rising to 57 in 2028.

“So, you could access your pension benefits before you receive your state pension.”