Thousands top up National Insurance to boost state pensions
Thousands top up National Insurance to boost state pensions
What do you need to know?
There are only two months left to fill the gaps in National Insurance records from 2006 onwards. Thousands of people in the UK have started to take action to maximise their State Pensions.
Since the online service was launched last April, more than 37,000 people have topped up a total of 68,673 years, total adding up to £35 million in contributions according to HMRC.
Key Insights from the Digital Service:
- The average top-up payment is £1,835
- More than 37,000 online payments have been made online
- The highest weekly State Pension increase recorded is £113.76
- The average top-up payment has been 65% over the years by customers from 2017 onwards
HMRC and the Department for Work & Pensions are advising individuals to check their National Insurance records and fill any gaps by 5 April 2025.
Starting 6 April 2025, voluntary National Insurance Contribution will be only accepted for the previous six tax years, conforming to standard time limits.
To review your pension entitlements and take necessary action individuals are advised to use the Check your State Pension forecast service on GOV.UK. It is the fastest and simplest way. Additionally, the HMRC app allows users to check their pension forecast.
Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Second Permanent Secretary, stated:
"Time is running out to review and fill any gaps in your National Insurance record from 2006 onwards. Checking is quick and easy on GOV.UK, and taking action now could make a significant difference to your retirement income."
The introduction of the improved digital service allowed 4.3 million people to review their State Pension forecast last year. The system allows users to check for gaps, calculate potential pension increases, and make single payments for as many years as needed.
Important Considerations:
- Individuals should check if they are eligible for National Insurance credits before making voluntary contributions
- Men born after 6 April 951 and women born after April 1953 can make voluntary contributions to boost their state pension
- The deadline for voluntary contributions was extended to 5 April 2025 for those who are affected by State Pension transitional arrangements, covering tax years from 2006 to 2018
- After 5 April 2025, voluntary contributions will be only allowable to apply to the previous six tax years
Majority of the working-age individuals can use the online service without needing to call HMRC or DWP, including individuals abroad who wish to pay for the years they lived in the UK. However, this service is not available to current State Pension recipients, self-employed individuals, or those living overseas with gaps from working abroad. They can find guidance on managing their contributions on GOV.UK
Stay safe from Scams
HMRC urges individuals to remain careful of fraud and to never share login details. Scam prevention advice is available on GOV.UK.
For more details on voluntary National Insurance contributions, visit GOV.UK.
