The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is encouraging people to check whether they are eligible for a higher State Pension. Many individuals may not be aware that they can increase their pension amounts by ensuring they have sufficient National Insurance (NI) contributions.
Who Is Eligible for the New State Pension?
The State Pension system in the UK has two types: the basic State Pension and the new State Pension. The type you receive depends on your date of birth:
- Men born on or after April 6, 1951
- Women born on or after April 6, 1953
If you were born before these dates, you will receive the basic State Pension instead of the new State Pension.
Want to know how much #StatePension you’ll get?
You may be able to get more by making Voluntary National Insurance Contributions
Check if this applies to you via the free @HMRCgovuk apphttps://t.co/cd6F5wtasT#PensionPlanning pic.twitter.com/2SZw2ytw2G
— Department for Work and Pensions (@DWPgovuk) January 14, 2025
What Are Qualifying Years for State Pension?
To receive the new State Pension, you must have at least 10 qualifying years on your National Insurance (NI) record. A qualifying year means:
- You were employed and paid National Insurance contributions
- You received National Insurance credits (e.g., for unemployment, illness, or being a carer)
- You made voluntary National Insurance contributions
If you do not have enough qualifying years, your pension amount will be lower.
Filling Gaps in Your National Insurance Record
If there are gaps in your National Insurance record, you may be able to make voluntary contributions to increase your State Pension. This is especially useful for people who took time off work, lived abroad, or were self-employed with low earnings.
The DWP recommends checking your NI record and exploring ways to fill any missing years before reaching pension age.
Why It’s Important to Check Your State Pension Now
By verifying your National Insurance record early, you can:
- Ensure you qualify for the full State Pension
- Avoid surprises when you retire
- Take action to boost your pension income if needed
The UK government provides an online tool to check your State Pension forecast and NI contributions. If you find gaps, you may be eligible to make up for them.
Many people are unaware that they can increase their State Pension by checking their National Insurance record and making voluntary contributions if necessary. The DWP encourages everyone approaching retirement to review their eligibility and take action if needed. Checking your State Pension status today could ensure a better financial future in retirement.
FAQ
Here is the SEO-friendly FAQ section in the Rank Math FAQ Schema block format for better search engine optimization and visibility:
What is the State Pension age in the UK?
The current State Pension age in the UK is 66. However, it is set to rise to 67 by 2028 and may increase further based on government reviews.
How many National Insurance years are needed for a full State Pension?
To receive the full new State Pension, you need at least 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions.
Can I boost my State Pension if I have missing NI years?
Yes, you can make voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill any gaps in your record and increase your pension amount.
How do I check my National Insurance record?
You can check your National Insurance record online through the UK government’s official website using your personal tax account.
What happens if I have fewer than 10 qualifying years?
If you have fewer than 10 qualifying years, you will not be eligible for the new State Pension. You may need to explore voluntary contributions or alternative retirement income sources.
Do self-employed individuals qualify for the State Pension?
Yes, self-employed individuals qualify for the State Pension if they have made the required National Insurance contributions over the years.
Will my State Pension be affected if I worked abroad?
If you worked in another country, your UK State Pension eligibility may be affected. Some countries have agreements with the UK, allowing contributions to be counted towards your pension.
When should I start checking my State Pension forecast?
It is advisable to check your State Pension forecast at least 10 years before retirement so you can address any missing National Insurance contributions in time.
