The New State Pension was introduced on 6 April 2016.
If you reached state pension age prior to 6 April 2016 then you claim under the old state pension scheme.
Your entitlement to the New State Pension depends on your:
- National Insurance Contributions (NICs)
- Qualifying years
For claims, since the 6th April 2016, you must have been paid or been credited with National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for at least 10 years of your working life to receive any State Pension, and 35 years to receive the full New State Pension. The qualifying years don't have to be consecutive. You can find out more information about the new State Pension on NI Direct.
The full amount of the new State Pension is £179.60 a week however this will depend on your national insurance contributions.
The earliest date which you will be able to claim the new State Pension is when you reach your State Pension age, however, the pension age is increasing for both men and women therefore it is best to check your State Pension age online.