What is the state pension triple lock?

The UK state pension triple lock is loved by pensioners but hated by economists. But what is the triple lock – and what does its future hold?

Old couple using laptop at home
We explain what the triple lock is and what it means for state pension payments
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Spring is finally here and with it comes a big boost for pensioners due to the income-raising power of the state pension triple lock.

Thanks to another set of above-inflation wage growth figures, the state pension rose by 4.1% in April.

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Ruth Emery
Contributing editor

Ruth is an award-winning financial journalist with more than 15 years' experience of working on national newspapers, websites and specialist magazines.

She is passionate about helping people feel more confident about their finances. She was previously editor of Times Money Mentor, and prior to that was deputy Money editor at The Sunday Times. 

A multi-award winning journalist, Ruth started her career on a pensions magazine at the FT Group, and has also worked at Money Observer and Money Advice Service. 

Outside of work, she is a mum to two young children, while also serving as a magistrate and an NHS volunteer.