Any extra payments you get from deferring could be taxed. You cannot build it up while you or your partner get certain benefits, including Pension Credit and Universal Credit.
Quick facts
- Increase
- 1% for every 9 weeks
- A year's wait
- Just under 5.8%
- Lump sum
- Up to 52 weeks of arrears
- Full new pension
- £241.30 a week
- Before 6 April 2016
- 1% every 5 weeks
How much extra you get
You must defer claiming your State Pension for at least 9 weeks before you can claim increased regular payments.
For every 9 weeks you defer, you’ll get 1% added to your regular weekly pension payment for life.
This works out as just under 5.8% for every 52 weeks (12 months) you defer.
If you defer for 52 weeks, you’ll get an extra £13.99 a week (5.8% of £241.30).
It will take over 15 years to get back 52 weeks of deferred full new State Pension.
A one-off payment instead
You can only claim a one-off arrears payment of up to 52 weeks.
If you defer your full new State Pension for 52 weeks, you’ll get a one-off arrears payment of £12,547.60.
You will not get any interest added to your one-off arrears payment.
If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016
For every 5 weeks you defer, you’ll get 1% of that amount added to your regular payment for life.
This works out as just under 10.4% for every 52 weeks (12 months) you defer.
If you get benefits
You cannot build up extra State Pension during any period you get Pension Credit, income-related ESA, Universal Credit, Carer’s Allowance and some other benefits, or while your partner gets Pension Credit, Universal Credit or income-related ESA.
You must tell the Pension Service if you’re on benefits and you want to defer.
In Ireland the rules are different: see deferring the Irish State Pension.
Common questions
How much extra do I get for deferring my State Pension?
1% for every 9 weeks, just under 5.8% for each year, if you reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016.
Can I take it as a lump sum?
Yes, a one-off arrears payment of up to 52 weeks, with no interest added.
How long does it take to make deferring pay?
Over 15 years to get back 52 weeks of deferred full new State Pension.
Can I defer if I'm on Pension Credit?
You cannot build up extra State Pension while you get Pension Credit.