Answers · UK 2025/26
What is the state pension triple lock guarantee?
The triple lock is a government policy guaranteeing that the State Pension increases each April by whichever is highest: inflation (CPI), average earnings growth, or 2.5%.
Full answer
The triple lock was introduced in 2011 to protect the real value of the State Pension. Each April, the new State Pension and basic State Pension rise by the highest of three measures: the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate from September of the prior year, average weekly earnings growth from May to July of the prior year, or a minimum of 2.5%. For 2026/27, the full new State Pension is £221.20 per week (£11,502 per year), having risen under the triple lock. The policy has been the subject of political debate as the UK population ages, but remains in place as of 2026. Without the triple lock, pensioners income would erode in real terms during periods of high inflation or wage stagnation.
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.