How to Apply for State Pension in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to claim your UK State Pension? Learn how to apply online, by phone, or by post, when to apply, and what documents you need to receive your pension payments.

If you’re approaching State Pension age, you’ll need to apply to start receiving payments—it does not start automatically.

The application process is simple, but it’s important to apply on time to avoid delays in receiving your pension. This guide explains when to apply, how to apply online, by phone, or by post, and what information you’ll need to complete your application.

When Should You Apply for the State Pension?

You can apply for your State Pension up to 4 months before reaching your State Pension age.

  • The current State Pension age is 66 for both men and women.

  • It will rise to 67 between 2026 and 2028.

  • It is expected to increase to 68 in the future.

Even if you don’t plan to retire immediately, you can still apply for your State Pension and continue working.

How to Apply for Your State Pension

You can apply for the State Pension in three ways:

Online (Fastest & Easiest Method)
By Phone
By Post

1. Apply for Your State Pension Online (Recommended Method)

The easiest and quickest way to apply is online through the Government’s State Pension service.

How to Apply Online:

  1. Go to: Apply for State Pension Online

  2. Sign in with your Government Gateway ID (or create one if you don’t have it).

  3. Fill in your personal details, National Insurance number, and bank details for payments.

  4. Submit your application and wait for confirmation.

Processing Time:
Your first payment usually arrives within 5 weeks after reaching State Pension age.
After that, you’ll be paid every 4 weeks.

2. Apply for Your State Pension by Phone

If you prefer to apply by phone, you can contact the State Pension claim line.

UK State Pension Claim Line:

  • Telephone: 0800 731 7898

  • Textphone: 0800 731 7339

  • Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 7898

  • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

If you’re applying from abroad, call: +44 191 218 7777 (International State Pension Claim Line)

When calling, have your National Insurance number ready.

3. Apply for Your State Pension by Post

If you prefer, you can request a paper application form and send it by post.

How to Apply by Post:

  1. Download the State Pension claim form (BR1) from the GOV.UK website or google ‘Download the BR1 Form’

  2. Fill out the form with your personal and bank details.

  3. Send the completed form to:

  • Pension Service 8

  • Post Handling Site B

  • Wolverhampton

  • WV98 1AF

Processing Time: Postal applications take longer than online or phone applications, so apply as early as possible.

What Information Do You Need to Apply?

When applying for the State Pension, you will need:

Your National Insurance number
Your bank or building society details (for payments)
The date you want to start receiving your pension
If you’ve worked abroad – details of any overseas pensions
Marriage or civil partnership details (if applicable)

If you have lived or worked abroad, you may also need:
Details of any foreign pensions you have paid into
Information about any social security contributions made overseas

What Happens After You Apply?

You will receive a confirmation letter from the DWP once your application is processed.
Your first payment arrives within 5 weeks of reaching your State Pension age.
Payments are then made every 4 weeks into your bank account.

If you haven’t received your first payment within 6 weeks, contact the State Pension claim line.

Can You Delay Your State Pension?

Yes, you can defer your State Pension if you don’t need it immediately.

  • For every 9 weeks you delay, your pension increases by 1%.

  • If you defer for one full year, your pension increases by 5.8%.

Deferring could be a good option if you plan to continue working past State Pension age.

What If You Live Abroad?

You can still apply for the UK State Pension while living overseas, but:

  • You must have at least 10 qualifying years of NI contributions.

  • Payments may be frozen at the amount first received unless you live in a country with a pension agreement with the UK.

Common Questions About Applying for State Pension

1. Can I Apply for State Pension Before I Reach Pension Age?

Yes, you can apply up to 4 months before reaching State Pension age.

2. Do I Have to Apply for State Pension?

Yes, State Pension payments do not start automatically—you must apply.

3. Can I Continue Working While Claiming State Pension?

Yes, you can keep working and receive your pension at the same time.

4. What If I Don’t Have Enough NI Contributions?

  • You won’t get a full pension, but you may be able to pay voluntary contributions.

  • If your income is low, you may be eligible for Pension Credit.

5. Can I Change My Mind After Applying?

Yes, you can cancel or defer your State Pension claim before receiving your first payment.

Final Thoughts: How to Apply for the UK State Pension

You must apply for the State Pension—it does not start automatically.
You can apply online (fastest), by phone, or by post.
Apply up to 4 months before reaching State Pension age to avoid delays.
If you continue working past pension age, you can defer your pension to increase payments.
If you live abroad, you can still claim, but payments may be frozen unless you live in a country with a pension agreement.