As part of changes to the UK State Pension, HMRC extended the normal six-year time limit for making backdated voluntary NI contributions to as far back as 2006/07.
This extended deadline for making backdated payments of Class 2 and Class 3 voluntary NI is now approaching on 5 April 2025.
Individuals who may have fallen out of UK NI, have this temporary opportunity to review their UK State Pension forecast, and register for voluntary NI contributions to cover any gaps in their NI record.
This could include internationally mobile individuals who have lived or worked outside of the UK. Employers who send UK-based employees to work abroad should also use this opportunity to understand and cover gaps in their employees’ NI records, particularly if they were equalised.
Typically, when registering to pay voluntary NI, individuals who were living or working outside of the UK can register to pay the cheaper Class 2 NI (currently £3.45 a week) to secure further qualifying years for UK State Pension purposes. Depending on individual circumstances, a payment of around £165 could result in an estimated gain of over £6,000 for someone who lives 20 years post-State Pension age.
To understand eligibility requirements, for support with registration or for more information, contact our UK LIMES team via dhruv.tanna@limes-int.co.uk.
Individuals should make their own informed decision on whether to register and can check their UK NI record here: Check your National Insurance record – GOV.UK and their State Pension forecast here: Check your State Pension forecast – GOV.UK.
