DWP issues new alert for Britons to check if they can boost their state pension rate

People can boost their state pension payments by filling gaps in their national insurance contribution records, the Department for Work and Pensions () has said.

The is urging people to check their forecast to see if they can benefit from the move.

In a new post on social media platform X, the wrote: “Do you 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 app.”

People accumulate (NI) years through paid work, but you can also earn them through NI credits, which are given during times of unemployment, illness, or while caring for children or family members.

To get the full new , most people need around 35 years of contributions, although some may need more.

If there are gaps in your contributions – which may have occurred when credits weren’t claimed – you can boost your pension by buying extra NI years to fill those gaps.

But time is running out. People only have until April 2025 to fill gaps for missing years dating back to 2006. After that, you’ll only be able to make contributions for the last six tax years, potentially losing out on thousands of pounds in future pension income.

That said, buying back missing NI years isn’t always the right move for everyone, so it’s important to check your forecast and weigh up the options before making any decisions.

People can see if they’d benefit by checking their National Insurance record and forecast on the website.

HM Revenue and Customs () and the Department for Work and Pensions () also offer an to help people calculate if they’ll benefit from making voluntary contributions.

State pension rates 2025

rates will increase in April 2025 under the Government’s policy.

Under the “”, the rises each April in line with the highest of three measures: average wage growth between May and July, CPI inflation in September, or 2.5 percent.

Wage growth saw the largest increase among the three metrics last year at 4%, making it the metric used to determine the pension increase.

Based on the increase, the new rates set to come into effect in April will be:

New

• Full rate: £230.25 per week (from £221.20)

Old/Basic

• Category A or B Basic : £176.45 per week (from £169.50)
• Category B (lower) Basic – spouse or civil: £105.70 per week (from £101.55)
• Partner’s insurance: £103.30 per week (from £101.55)
• Category C or D – non-contributory: £103.30 per week (from £101.55).