The deadline for buying National Insurance (NI) years to fill any gaps back to 2006 has been extended until 31st July 2023 - which is an extension from the previous deadline of 5th April.

A new state pension system was brought in on 6th April 2016 - therefore most people who are aged around 70 or under are eligible. Currently, the maximum state pension is £185.15 a week, however how much a person receives depends on how many full years NI have been paid.

Most people who started their NI record before 2016 need about 35 years of full NI contributions, however qualification is based upon age and NI record up to date, which means that more than 40 years could be necessary.

‘Transitional’ arrangements are in place  for anyone who has ‘missing’ years between 2006 to 2016 - to be able to top up or purchase these years to enable them to qualify for the maximum amount of state pension. After 31st July, the number of extra years anyone is able to purchase drops down to the last six tax years.

Checking the Government’s state pension forecast calculator gives information on how much state pension an individual will receive based on their NI record to date - and also how much state pension they are likely to get if they work up to state pension age. If the prediction does not show the full amount of £185.15 a week, gaps in the NI record can be checked for and purchased, or topped up if necessary.

It is not only work that earns NI years, as they can also be gained through activities such as being on statutory maternity, paternity or adoption pay, on statutory sick pay, unemployed but searching for work, being a carer, or married to a member of the armed forces.

It is worth noting that only full qualifying NI years count towards the state pension. However information and advice can be gained from the Future Pension Centre or the Pension Service who can provide personalised information about one’s current NI record.