Check eligibility to boost state pension by April 5

Martin Lewis, the well-known Money Saving Expert, has urged state pension recipients to act quickly. They have until April 5 to see if they can increase their benefits by buying back missed national insurance years. Lewis explained that this opportunity is especially important for those affected by the new state pension rules introduced in 2016. Men born after April 5, 1951, and women born after April 5, 1953, may benefit from this chance to buy back contributions dating back to 2006. Typically, people can only buy back the last six years of contributions. However, due to transitional arrangements, this deadline allows for a longer period. Many people missed year contributions are due to various reasons, such as living abroad, low income, or taking breaks from work. Women often face this situation more frequently. Lewis highlighted the significance of this deadline by sharing a story from a woman who found that her missing contributions could add nearly £6,000 to her annual pension. Over twenty years, this could amount to an impressive £118,000. Notably, those interested do not need to be at state pension age to check their eligibility. People aged 40 to 73 should particularly consider this advice. To see if they qualify, Lewis recommends visiting the government website to review their national insurance record.