State pensioners in the UK have been issued a critical one-month warning to fill gaps in their National Insurance (NI) record before April 5, 2025. By taking action now, individuals could increase their pension pot by up to £60,000.
HMRC is urging pensioners to check and top up their NI contributions, as a major rule change will reduce the backdating period from April 6, 2025. Currently, people can fill NI gaps dating back to April 6, 2006, but after the deadline, they will only be able to backdate contributions for six years.
Table of Contents
Why This Matters for Your State Pension
- Deadline: April 5, 2025
- Current Backdating Limit: NI gaps can be filled from April 6, 2006
- Post-April 6, 2025: Only six years of backdated contributions allowed
- Potential Pension Increase: Up to £60,000 over retirement
Since HMRC introduced its online NI checking tool in April 2023, more than 37,000 people have used it, contributing 68,000 extra years of NI payments—equivalent to £35 million in top-ups.
How Much Can You Gain?
- Average top-up payment: £1,835
- Largest recorded weekly pension increase: £113.76 per week
- Total lifetime pension boost: Up to £60,000 for some individuals
Rosie Hooper, a chartered financial planner at Quilter Cheviot, advises:
“For those with gaps in their record—especially people in their late 40s, 50s, and 60s—checking eligibility should be a priority.”
How to Check and Top Up Your NI Record
- Use the ‘Check your State Pension forecast’ tool on GOV.UK.
- Visit the HMRC website to review your NI contributions and identify gaps.
- Make voluntary contributions if needed.
- Use the HMRC app for quick access to your state pension forecast.
Important: Those not paying National Insurance may be eligible for NI credits, which could help boost their pension.
With just a few months left, state pensioners and those nearing retirement should urgently check their NI records. Missing this opportunity could mean losing out on thousands of pounds in pension payments.
Take action now—visit GOV.UK, check your eligibility, and secure your financial future before the April 5, 2025 deadline.
FAQ’s
What is the deadline to top up National Insurance contributions?
The deadline to fill NI gaps and increase your State Pension is April 5, 2025. After this, you can only backdate contributions for six years.
How much can I increase my State Pension by?
Some individuals could boost their pension pot by up to £60,000 over retirement by making voluntary National Insurance contributions.
How do I check my National Insurance record?
You can check your NI record and State Pension forecast on GOV.UK or use the HMRC app for quick access to your contribution history.
What is the average NI top-up payment?
The average voluntary National Insurance contribution payment is £1,835, leading to significant pension increases.
Can I get National Insurance credits instead of paying?
Yes, if you’re not paying NI, you may be eligible for credits. Check eligibility on GOV.UK to see if you qualify.
