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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has warned millions of people that they should act now – or risk losing the opportunity to boost their State Pension.
In new advice published today, the DWP said people have less than six months to fill any gaps in their National Insurance records from 2006 onwards to maximise their State Pension. The Government is encouraging people to act now – and check their National Insurance record.
A DWP spokesperson said: “More than 10,000 payments worth £12.5 million have been made through the new digital service to boost people’s State Pension since it launched in April 2024, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revealed. People have until 5 April 2025 to maximise their State Pension by making voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill any gaps in their NI record between 6 April 2006 and 5 April 2018.
“HMRC and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are encouraging people to act now and use the Check your State Pension forecast tool on GOV.UK to see if they can increase their retirement income. The service enables people to check if they have gaps in their National Insurance (NI) record, calculate if making a payment would increase their State Pension, and then make a payment if they wish to do so.”
Since its launch in April, more 3.7 million people have used the online checking tool on GOV.UK to view their State Pension forecast. The DWP says that once the April 5 2025 deadline has passed, people will only be able to make voluntary contributions for the previous six tax years, in line with normal time limits.
Emma Reynolds, Minister for Pensions, said: “We want pensioners of today and tomorrow to enjoy the dignity and support they deserve in retirement. That’s why I urge everyone to check if they could benefit by filling gaps before the deadline passes. Using our online tool means only a few clicks could make a huge difference to your future.”
To Check your State Pension forecast, log on using your HMRC account or via the free and secure HMRC app. Those without an online HMRC account can register on GOV.UK.
A spokesperson said: “HMRC app users can see their pension details at their fingertips including their current potential retirement date as well as annual, monthly and weekly forecasts as well as checking their NI record. Everyone should be aware of the risk of falling victim to scams and should never share their HMRC login details with anyone. HMRC scams advice is available on GOV.UK.”
People are advised to check if they can get National Insurance credits before they look into paying voluntary contributions. Men born after 6 April 1951 or women born after 6 April 1953 are eligible to make voluntary National Insurance contributions to boost their State Pensions.
Most people of working age will be able to use the online service, without needing to phone HMRC or DWP. This includes UK taxpayers living abroad who want to pay voluntary contributions for years they were resident in the UK.
However, additional payments cannot be made by those who are already receiving their State Pension, self-employed customers or customers currently living outside the UK with gaps incurred while working abroad.