In a significant victory for retirees across the UK, state pensioners born before 1959 are now receiving up to £209 per week, thanks to a pension system reform introduced in 2016.
This update not only increases pension payments but also helps bridge the gender pension gap that historically disadvantaged women.
Let’s explore the details of this change, who benefits, and how much they stand to receive under the updated state pension system.
What Is the 2016 State Pension Rule Change?
The UK government implemented a reformed state pension system on 6 April 2016, aiming to simplify pension calculations and reduce historical inequalities. The changes applied to those reaching state pension age after this date.
One of the major goals of the reform was to close the gender pension gap, and recent figures suggest this initiative is succeeding.
Closing the Gender Pension Gap
Historically, women received significantly lower state pensions than men, largely due to career breaks, part-time work, or lack of qualifying years. Before the reform:
- In 2018, average weekly state pension:
- Men: £153.97
- Women: £126.72
- Gap: £27.25
In 2025, the average pension values are now almost equal:
| Gender | Average Weekly State Pension (2025) |
|---|---|
| Men | £209.95 |
| Women | £208.15 |
| Gap | £1.80 |
This £1.80 difference marks a major improvement and shows that the 2016 reform has made pension payments fairer for newly retired women.
Who Is Eligible for the £209 Weekly Pension?
To qualify for the reformed full state pension of £209.95 per week, individuals must meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Born before 6 April 1959 |
| Reached State Pension Age | On or after 6 April 2016 |
| State Pension Age | Currently 66 for both men and women |
| National Insurance Record | 35 qualifying years for full pension |
If you have fewer than 35 years, you may still receive a pro-rata pension based on your contribution history.
Why This Matters for Older Pensioners
This rule change offers a substantial income boost for many, especially women who were historically disadvantaged by the old system. Although new pensioners benefit most, many older retirees—particularly women—remain underpaid.
Experts and campaigners are calling for further reforms and corrections for those who retired before 2016, ensuring they’re not left behind.
How to Check Your Pension Entitlement
If you were born before 1959 and have reached state pension age, you can check your entitlement through:
- State Pension Forecast on the GOV.UK website
- Contacting the Pension Service
- Reviewing your National Insurance record
Expert Opinions on the Reform
Several financial experts have praised the progress made since 2016:
- Helen Morrissey, Hargreaves Lansdown: Stresses the need for workplace flexibility and childcare access to support women’s pension security.
- Claire Trott, St. James’s Place: Highlights concerns about the Triple Lock’s sustainability, as it continues to raise pensions at a faster-than-expected pace.
Despite the positive steps, ongoing monitoring is needed to ensure pension equality and long-term affordability.
The £209 weekly state pension is a result of deliberate reform aimed at fairness and equity, particularly for pensioners born before 1959.
The narrowing of the gender pay gap in pensions is a major step forward, but continued efforts are needed to support those who retired under older, less generous rules.
If you’re nearing retirement or recently retired, check your state pension forecast and ensure you’re receiving the correct amount.
With the right records and eligibility, this boosted pension can make a significant difference in your financial stability during retirement.
FAQs
I retired before 2016. Am I eligible for the £209 payment?
No. The £209 weekly pension applies only to those who reached state pension age after 6 April 2016.
How many years of National Insurance are required for the full pension?
You need 35 qualifying years to receive the full weekly pension of £209.95.
Can I still increase my state pension?
Yes. You may be able to top up your National Insurance contributions if you have gaps in your record.