The State Pension is a great benefit that most people qualify for in some way, and it can make an enormous different to lifestyle in retirement. Yet due to the numerous rule changes over the years, many people would agree it is exceedingly complicated. My recommendation is to obtain a personal State Pension forecast to find out what you will be entitled to. You can do this here. As the State Pension age is being increased, the forecast will also confirm when it is due to commence. The number of years required to reach the maximum State Pension has also changed over the years. Until 2010, men needed 44 years to receive the maximum, and women 39 years. This was equalised and brought down to 30