HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions have launched the "Check your State Pension Forecast" online tool, enabling individuals to verify gaps in their National Insurance (NI) contributions since 2006 and determine if additional payments are necessary to secure a full state pension upon retirement.

The tool helps users calculate how much their state pension could increase by making voluntary NI contributions and which specific years they can pay for. It also provides a secure payment option and confirms updated NI records.

The state pension age is set to increase to 67 between 2026 and 2028 for those born from 1 April 1960 onwards and to 68 between 2044 and 2046. In response to the new state pension transitional arrangements, the Government has extended the deadline for voluntary NI contributions to 5 April 2025, covering the tax years from 6 April 2006 to 5 April 2018. From 6 April 2025, voluntary contributions will be limited to the previous six tax years.

Taxpayers need to use their Personal Tax Account details or the HMRC app to access the service. Registration for an online account is available on gov.uk.

Nigel Huddleston, financial secretary to the Treasury, said:

"Having peace of mind when planning for retirement is crucial to ensure people can enjoy later life. That's why HMRC has launched this new online service, making a real difference for thousands of pensioners in their retirement while providing certainty to those in their middle years and those still planning ahead."

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