Answers · UK 2025/26
How much extra state pension do I get if I defer for one year?
Deferring your State Pension increases it by approximately 1% for every 9 weeks you delay claiming. Over a full year (52 weeks) that works out to roughly 5.8% extra per year. On the 2026/27 full new State Pension of around £241.30/week, one year's deferral adds approximately £13.99/week (£727/year).
Full answer
If you reach State Pension age but choose not to claim immediately, your entitlement grows through deferral. This can significantly increase your weekly income if you live long enough to benefit. **The deferral rate** Under the new State Pension (introduced April 2016), you earn 1% extra for every 9 weeks deferred. Over 52 weeks that equates to 52 ÷ 9 = 5.78%, commonly rounded to approximately 5.8% per year. **Worked example -- one year deferral** Full new State Pension 2026/27: approximately £241.30/week Deferral uplift after 1 year: £241.30 x 5.78% = £13.95/week extra New weekly State Pension: £241.30 + £13.95 = £255.25/week Annual increase: approximately £725/year **Worked example -- two year deferral** Uplift: £241.30 x 11.56% = £27.89/week extra New weekly State Pension: approximately £269.19/week **Break-even point** Deferral only pays off if you live long enough to recoup the missed payments. If you defer one year and gain ~£727/year extra, but missed ~£12,548 of State Pension, the break-even is roughly 17 years after you eventually claim. For most people deferring to age 67, break-even falls around age 84. **No lump sum option** Under the old State Pension, you could take missed payments as a taxable lump sum. This option no longer exists under the new State Pension -- you can only take the higher weekly amount. **Tax considerations** The higher State Pension is fully taxable income. If adding the uplifted pension to other income pushes you into a higher tax band, the net benefit is reduced. Higher rate taxpayers should model this carefully. **Important**: if you are receiving certain means-tested benefits such as Pension Credit, deferring may reduce or eliminate those benefits. Always check your benefit entitlement before deciding to defer.
More answers
This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.