A major milestone has been reached for UK retirees, as pensioners born before 1959 are now receiving up to £209 per week under the reformed State Pension system introduced in 2016. This change is not just about increasing payments it also represents a significant step towards closing the gender pension gap that has historically left women at a disadvantage.
This article explores the details of the reform, who qualifies, and how pensioners can check their entitlement.
Understanding the 2016 State Pension Reform
The reformed State Pension system, launched on 6 April 2016, was designed to simplify pension calculations and make payments fairer. It replaced the old system of a basic pension plus additional earnings-related components with a single flat-rate pension for those reaching State Pension age on or after that date.
One of the government’s main objectives was to reduce inequalities, especially the long-standing gender gap in pension income. The latest figures suggest that the reform has brought men’s and women’s pensions much closer in value.
Progress in Closing the Gender Pension Gap
Before the 2016 changes, women often received lower pensions due to career breaks, part-time work, or fewer qualifying years in their National Insurance records.
For example, in 2018
- Men received an average of £153.97 per week
- Women received an average of £126.72 per week
- The gap was £27.25 per week
In 2025, the difference has narrowed dramatically
- Men: £209.95 per week
- Women: £208.15 per week
- Gap: £1.80 per week
This near-parity shows that the new system has made pension payments more equitable for recent retirees.
Who Is Eligible for the £209 Weekly Pension?
To receive the full new State Pension of £209.95 per week in 2025, pensioners must meet specific requirements.
Eligibility criteria include
- Born before 6 April 1959
- Reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016
- Current State Pension age: 66 for both men and women
- At least 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions
If you have fewer than 35 years, your pension will be calculated on a pro-rata basis according to your contribution history.
Why This Reform Matters for Older Pensioners
The increase provides a meaningful boost to retirement income, particularly for women who were disadvantaged under the old system. While the reform benefits those retiring after 2016, many older pensioners who retired before that date remain on lower rates. Campaigners continue to press for fairer treatment for pre-2016 retirees to ensure they are not left behind.
How to Check Your Pension Entitlement
Pensioners can check what they are entitled to by:
- Using the State Pension Forecast tool on the GOV.UK website
- Contacting the Pension Service directly by phone
- Reviewing their National Insurance record to see if they have the required qualifying years
If there are gaps in your record, it may be possible to make voluntary contributions to increase your future payments.
Expert Views on the Reform
Financial experts have welcomed the progress but also caution that further work is needed.
- Helen Morrissey of Hargreaves Lansdown emphasises the importance of workplace flexibility and childcare support to help women build stronger pension entitlements.
- Claire Trott of St. James’s Place raises concerns about the sustainability of the Triple Lock policy, which continues to drive pension increases above inflation in some years.
Ongoing review and adjustments will be necessary to balance fairness with long-term affordability.
Final Thought
The 2016 State Pension reform has brought about significant positive change, particularly for pensioners born before 1959 who are now receiving up to £209.95 per week. The narrowing of the gender pension gap is an important achievement, but the debate continues over whether older retirees should also see similar benefits. Pensioners approaching retirement should review their National Insurance record and forecast to ensure they receive the amount they are entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years of National Insurance contributions are needed for the full pension?
You need 35 qualifying years for the full £209.95 weekly pension.
If I retired before 2016, am I eligible for the £209 payment?
No, the full amount applies only to those reaching State Pension age after 6 April 2016.
Can I still increase my pension amount?
Yes, if you have gaps in your National Insurance record, you may be able to make voluntary contributions to boost your entitlement.