More than 10,000 payments worth £12.5 million have been made through a new digital service to boost people’s state pension, HMRC has revealed.
People have until 5 April 2025 to maximise their state pension by making voluntary National Insurance contributions (NICs) to fill any gaps in their NICs record between 6 April 2006 and 5 April 2018.
The service enables people to check if they have gaps in their NICs record, calculate if making a payment would increase their state pension, and then make a payment if they wish to do so.
HMRC data shows:
- 51% of taxpayers topped up one year of their NICs record
- the average online payment is £1,193
- the largest weekly State Pension increase is £107.44.
After the 5 April 2025 deadline, 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.’
Check your pension here.
Internet link: GOV.UK
