HMRC Encourages Pensioners to Check State Pension Eligibility
The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging individuals to review their eligibility for a potential state pension increase. Thousands of people who claimed child benefit before 2000 may be missing out on state pension payments due to gaps in their national insurance records. During pensions awareness week, HMRC is specifically targeting women, advising them to scrutinize their National Insurance record for any discrepancies and to consider topping up their State Pension at no cost.
For individuals who claimed child benefit between 1978 and 2000, Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) was automatically applied to their national insurance records, safeguarding their state pension entitlement. However, those who claimed child benefit before May 2000 without providing their national insurance number may not have had HRP applied to their records, potentially affecting their state pension eligibility.
While the absence of HRP in their National Insurance record does not automatically mean their state pension calculation is incorrect, it does raise the likelihood of inaccuracies, especially for individuals who took time away from work to raise a family. HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions are collaborating to identify those affected and to encourage them to claim HRP to update their records.
Individuals can easily check their eligibility and make a claim on the GOV.UK website, a process that takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Alternatively, a claim can also be submitted by post using form CF411.
HMRC’s initiative serves as a reminder for pensioners to take proactive steps in ensuring they receive the full benefits they are entitled to. By addressing any gaps in their national insurance records promptly, individuals can potentially boost their state pension payments and improve their financial security in retirement.