DWP Official Notice: Are you worried about missing out on your full State Pension? If you have gaps in your National Insurance (NI) record between 2006 and 2018, you still have time to fix them — but the deadline is 5 April 2025. After this date, you may lose the chance to increase your pension!
In this article, we explain why it’s important to check your NI record, how to fill the gaps, and what steps you need to take before the deadline.
Why Should You Check Your National Insurance Record
Your State Pension amount depends on your National Insurance contributions. If you have gaps in your record — for example, because of time off work, unemployment, or living abroad — you may get less than the full pension.
The good news is that you can pay voluntary NI contributions to fill these gaps and boost your pension amount. But remember, the opportunity to backdate contributions for gaps between 2006 and 2018 ends on 5 April 2025.
How to Check for Gaps in Your National Insurance Record
Checking your NI record is quick and easy. If you’re unsure whether you have gaps, follow these simple steps:
- Watch our step-by-step guide on YouTube to learn how to check your NI record:
👉 Watch the video here - Log in to your online personal tax account on the official government website to see your National Insurance record.
- Look for any missing years or partial contributions that could affect your pension.
What If You Find Gaps? How to Fill Them
If you find gaps, you may be able to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions to cover those years. Doing this can increase your State Pension in the future.
To get advice or help, you can also request a call back using our online form:
👉 Request a call back here
A member of the National Insurance helpline team will contact you to guide you on what to do next.
Important Deadline: 5 April 2025
This is a final opportunity to make up for any missed contributions between 2006 and 2018. After this deadline, you may not be able to fill these gaps, and your pension might be lower.
So, act now to protect your future income!
Making sure your National Insurance record is complete is one of the best ways to secure your full State Pension when you retire. Don’t leave it too late — check your record today, and if you need to, pay the voluntary contributions before 5 April 2025. If you are unsure, reach out for help using the callback service, and make sure you get what you’re entitled to!
Request a call back to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions
Complete this form if you’re struggling to contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) by phone to pay voluntary National Insurance Contributions.
DWP will contact you on the phone number you provide in this form to discuss payment of voluntary National Insurance contributions.
If you submit a request by the 5 April 2025 deadline, you will still be able to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions after the deadline has passed.
If you have already requested a call back, please do not send another request.
FAQ
What is the deadline to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions?
The deadline to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions for gaps between 2006 and 2018 is 5 April 2025. After this date, you may lose the chance to fill these gaps and boost your State Pension.
Why should I check my National Insurance record?
Checking your National Insurance record ensures you have enough qualifying years to receive the full State Pension. If there are gaps, you might get a reduced amount.
How can I check for gaps in my National Insurance record?
You can check your National Insurance record online through your personal tax account. You can also watch the official YouTube guide at https://youtu.be/_8GkTNgyXqs to learn how to check for gaps.
What should I do if I find gaps in my National Insurance record?
If you find gaps in your National Insurance record, you may be able to pay voluntary contributions to fill those years. You can also request a call back for guidance using the form at https://ow.ly/oGbl50VarlC.
Who can I contact for help with my National Insurance record?
You can request a call back from the National Insurance team using the official online form: https://ow.ly/oGbl50VarlC. A representative will guide you on how to proceed.
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