The UK state pension is a regular payment from the government when you reach state pension age, based on your National Insurance (NI) contributions.
The full new state pension is £221.20 per week (2024–25). You need 35 qualifying NI years to receive the full amount. You need a minimum of 10 qualifying years to receive anything. Gaps in your NI record can sometimes be filled by buying voluntary contributions.
Currently 66 for both men and women. Rising to 67 between 2026 and 2028. A further rise to 68 is under review but not legislated for most people yet.
Go to gov.uk/check-state-pension — you will need a Government Gateway account. The forecast shows your current entitlement and projected amount if you continue contributing. Check it at least once before retirement to identify any gaps worth filling.