State Pension credits – checking for gaps

The Government’s online service informs individuals how much State Pension they could be entitled to. It shows a person’s National Insurance (NI) record, which helps to identify any gaps and missing credits (a client needs 35 qualifying years of NI contributions to get the full State Pension). Where appropriate, clients should check their record to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

If a client does have any gaps on their NI record, they may be able to pay voluntary contributions in order to fill these gaps. Usually, it’s only possible to pay gaps for the previous six years. However, there are special arrangements for people who reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016. They have until 5 April 2025 to pay voluntary contributions to make up gaps between April 2006 and April 2018. After 5 April 2025, this will revert to the usual six-year period.

Next steps

• Remind clients to check their NI record, where required.
• If you have any queries on areas such as entitlement and the amount due, download our guide on the State Pension (a client guide is also available).

Technical guide to the State Pension

Client guide to the State Pension