Martin Lewis urges pensioners to do one ‘most lucrative thing’ before strict deadline

Martin Lewis is urging pensioners to complete a task which is the “most lucrative thing you can do”.

The Department for Work and Pensions has handed state pensioners a strict deadline for topping up their National Insurance contributions and boosting their pots.

Pensioners can increase their with one simple check. The says downloading the app can help state pensioners check for any missing years in their National Insurance Contributions and potentially add thousands to their pension pot.

Martin Lewis has why it is crucial, saying: “Boosting your by back-claiming or buying missing National Insurance years is one of the single most lucrative things you can do.”

The 52-year-old said: “Many people have been in touch to say they’re likely to gain £10,000s from it.”

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the said: “Want to know how much you’ll get? You may be able to get more by making Voluntary National Insurance Contributions. Check if this applies to you via the free GOV.UK app.”

You cannot pay voluntary contributions if you do not have gaps in your National Insurance record – unless you’re getting Class 3 credits and are eligible to pay Class 2 contributions.

You cannot pay voluntary contributions if you are a married woman or widow paying reduced rate National Insurance or have passed the deadline for paying contributions for the period that has gaps, either, the has stipulated.

The says: “Voluntary contributions do not always increase your , for example, if you were contracted out.

“If you’re below age, check your forecast to find out if you’ll benefit from paying voluntary contributions. You can also contact the Future Pension Centre.

“If you’ve reached age, contact the Pension Service to find out if you’ll benefit from voluntary contributions.

“If you’re living or working abroad and you’re over, or within 6 months of reaching age, contact the International Pension Centre for advice.”