State pension to rise in 2026 – but is it enough to live on?

If you're receiving the state pension, there's good news. Payments are expected to rise in April 2026 by 4.7%, which could mean over £560 more a year for many pensioners.

But will it be enough to cover the cost of living?

Why is the state pension increasing?

The government uses the triple lock system to decide how much the state pension goes up each April. It guarantees an increase by the highest of:

• inflation (measured in September)
• average wage growth (May - July)
• 2.5% minimum

This year, wages grew by 4.7%, while inflation is currently at 3.8%. That means the state pension will rise by 4.7% in April 2026, providing the triple lock is here to stay.

How much will you get?

For those on the new state pension, who retired on or after 6 April 2016:

• current amount: £230.25 per week (£11,973 per year)
• expected in 2026: £241.05 per week (£12,534.60 per year)
• annual increase: £561.60

For those on the old basic state pension, who retired before 6 April 2016:

• current amount: £176.45 per week (£9,175.40 per year)
• expected in 2026: £184.75 per week (£9,607 per year)

It’s important to remember that these are the maximum amounts. What you receive depends on your national insurance record.

Is it enough to live on?

Each year, the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) publishes estimates for the income someone will need in retirement.

It has three retirement living standards - minimum, moderate and comfortable.

The new figures for a single person are:

• £13,400 a year for a minimum standard of living
• £31,700 a year for a moderate standard
• £43,900 a year to live comfortably

For a couple, the figures are:

• £21,600 a year for a minimum standard
• £43,900 a year for a moderate standard
• £60,600 a year to enjoy a comfortable retirement

With the new state pension rising to an estimated £12,534.60, it still falls short of the ‘minimum’ living standard, and is well below what's needed for a moderate or comfortable retirement.

What if you’re struggling?

There is extra support available if your state pension doesn’t cover your needs:

Income top-ups and benefits

• pension credit – boosts your income if you're on a low pension
• council tax reduction – could reduce your bill depending on your circumstances
• housing benefit – helps with rent

Help with essential costs

• winter fuel payment – tax-free help with heating bills
• warm home discount – money off your electricity bill
• cold weather payments – £25 payment when temperatures drop
• NHS low-income scheme – help with prescriptions, dental care and glasses
• free TV licence – available if you're 75 or over and receive pension credit

Help with care or mobility needs

• attendance allowance – for people over state pension age who need extra help to live independently

How to claim pension credit

You can apply in several ways:

• online on the government website
• by phone: call the free helpline on 0800 99 1234
• by post: request a paper application
• home visit: available if you can't complete the form yourself

Don’t miss out on support

If you're unsure whether you qualify for pension credit or other benefits:

• Give us a ring and we’ll check for you.
• Use our free benefits calculator to see if you might be eligible for additional support.