State pensioners urged to check for one mistake that could cost them thousands

have been urged to check for this one common mistake that could cost them huge amount of their savings.

Steve Webb, former pension minister, requested that all state pensioners do a “spring clean” review of their (NI) records to ensure they are accurate

According to Mr Webb, incorrect NI records can “damage your future entitlement and cost you thousands of pounds if not fixed.”

National Insurance is the UK’s system of contributions that helps fund state benefits, including the , unemployment benefits, and the National Health Service (NHS).

Both employees and employers make regular contributions, and self-employed individuals pay their own NI under different rules.

Essentially, these contributions help build a record that may qualify you for certain benefits when needed.

The former minister shared the crucial information while responding to a pension query for .

He continued: “I would encourage everyone to undertake a ‘spring clean’ of their NI record, using the online tool at Check your National Insurance record and look for unexpected gaps.

“NI credits are available in a wide range of situations and although some are automatic (like credits for Universal Credit and ESA) some have to be claimed, such as carers credits for those looking after a disabled person for more than 20 hours per week.”

National Insurance credits are essentially “protective contributions” that help maintain your National Insurance record during times when you’re not working due to circumstances like ill health, unemployment, or caring for someone.

Maintaining a solid NI record is crucial because it affects your eligibility for benefits such as the .

The expert explained that normally, these credits should be added to your record automatically—so you don’t have to worry about losing out on those important contributions.

However, as many people have experienced, the automatic process sometimes fails.