The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has sounded the alarm for state pension recipients across the UK, warning that thousands could lose out on a staggering £9,000 boost if they don’t take immediate action.
Why Are People at Risk?
Many pensioners are unaware that they need to manually claim extra National Insurance (NI) credits to qualify for the full state pension amount. Missing out on these credits could leave them with a significantly reduced income in retirement.
Who Needs to Act?
The warning specifically targets those who may have gaps in their NI record, including:
- Parents who took time off work to care for children
- Individuals who were unemployed or on low incomes
- Those who provided unpaid care for relatives
How Much Could You Lose?
Experts estimate that failing to claim these credits could cost retirees up to £9,000 over a typical 20-year retirement period. That’s a substantial sum that could make a real difference in quality of life.
What Should You Do?
The DWP urges all state pension recipients to:
- Check their NI record for any gaps
- Apply for missing credits if eligible
- Seek guidance from the Pension Service if unsure
Time is of the essence – the longer you wait, the more you could potentially lose. Don’t let this crucial opportunity slip through your fingers.
