06 Feb 2025
People plugging gaps in their National Insurance contributions (NICs) have added £35 million to their State Pensions since last April, according to figures from HMRC.
More than 37,000 online payments have been made through the online service, equating to 68,673 years of contributions. The average online top-up payment is £1,835 and the largest weekly State Pension increase is £113.76. HMRC says that 65% of the years topped up by customers are from 2017 onwards.
HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are reminding customers they only have until 5 April to check their NICs record and fill any gaps from 6 April 2006 onwards.
From 6 April 2025, people will only be able to make voluntary NICs for the previous six tax years, in line with normal time limits.
The Check your State Pension forecast service on GOV.UK is the quickest and easiest way to check if action is required, HMRC said. The HMRC app can also be used.
Angela MacDonald, HMRC's Second Permanent Secretary and Deputy Chief Executive, said: 'There are just two months left to check and fill any gaps in your NICs record from 2006 onwards to boost your State Pension entitlement. Don't delay - it is quick and easy to check your NICs record on GOV.UK and it could help your finances in retirement.'