You could top-up your State pension

You have until 5th April 2025 to pay voluntary contributions to make up for gaps in your National Insurance (NI) record between April 2006 and April 2016 if you’re eligible. After 5th April 2025, you’ll only be able to pay voluntary contributions for the past six years. 

The concession allows people to rebuild their NI credits so they can get the full State pension – a boost that will be particularly welcomed by people who took time out to raise a family, carers and those who have worked abroad.

Under the new State pension system, you will need at least 35 years of NI contributions or ‘credits’ to qualify for the full payment of £221.20 a week. If you were contracted out of the State pension before April 2016, you may need more than 35 years to get the full rate. 

In addition to extending the deadline, the cost of paying voluntary NI contributions will remain frozen until 5 April 2025. 

You can find out more on the government website