Why do they matter? (rates from April 2026)

• You need 35 qualifying years for the full new State Pension, which is £241.30 a week.
• You need at least 10 qualifying years to get any State Pension at all.
• Each qualifying year adds roughly one thirty-fifth of the full amount, which works out at around £6.89 a week for life.

Who might get credits?

• Child Benefit claimants with a child under 12. Even if you've chosen not to receive the payments because of the High Income Child Benefit Charge, it's important to register your claim.
• Carers who give 20 hours or more a week of care, via Carer's Credit (if you're not getting Carer's Allowance, which gives credits automatically).
• People claiming Jobseeker's Allowance, ESA or Universal Credit when earnings are low.
• Parents getting Maternity Allowance or Statutory Maternity Pay.
• Some people on jury service, approved training or certain other schemes.
• Grandparents and other family members who care for a child under 12 may be able to get the credits transferred from the parent (called "specified adult childcare credits").

Good things to know:

• Some credits are automatic, but others you have to apply for, such as Carer's Credit. Child Benefit is the big one, so please don't miss out.
• Check your NI record on GOV.UK, which is free. It shows your qualifying years and any gaps.
• If you spot gaps, you may be able to fill them with voluntary Class 3 contributions, which cost £18.40 a week (£956.80 for a full year) in 2026/27. They only help if you won't reach 35 years in other ways, so check before you pay. The Future Pension Centre can tell you whether it's worth it.
• Only some gaps can be filled, usually in the last 6 tax years, so don't leave it too long.
• If you've already got 35 years, extra credits won't add anything.
• You don't have to take it on yourself. Citizens Advice, Age UK and MoneyHelper can help you decide.

Where to start: search "check your National Insurance record" on GOV.UK. You'll need to sign in to your Government Gateway or GOV.UK One Login account.

Rates are correct for 2026/27, but always double-check on GOV.UK. National Insurance and the State Pension work across the UK, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

If you've discovered gaps and sorted them, or you've got a top tip, please share it on the forum. It could save someone a lot of future worry. 🫶