HMRC sends pension message to five million people

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HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is currently highlighting a key message to a specific group of Brits. Those living abroad should check if they're able to fill in gaps in their National Insurance records, which could lead to higher State Pension payments upon retirement.

The amount paid out from the State Pension usually depends on an individual's number of 'qualifying years'. That is essentially the years during which National Insurance has been paid before retirement.

To be eligible for the full New State Pension, which stands at £221.20 per week, you need approximately 35 years of National Insurance contributions. However, HMRC emphasises that this can differ based on personal circumstances.

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The government department is particularly reaching out to British expats - of whom there are believed to be around 5.5 million - through social media with a strategic reminder: "Are you a #BritishExpat? There's still time to fill gaps in your #NationalInsurance record back to 2006 with voluntary contributions."

Enhancing your New State Pension may be possible as they further state: "Doing this may increase your #StatePension." It is not uncommon for expats residing outside the UK to have incomplete NI records due to periods spent working or living overseas.

Usually, voluntary contributions can be made for the past six tax years, but with the April 5 deadline fast approaching, the time to act under the extended window is limited before the standard six-tax year rule is reinstated. This opportunity is aimed at men born after April 6, 1951, and women born after April 6, 1953, who are interested in beefing up their New State Pension through voluntary NI contributions.

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Here's how to check your National Insurance record. You can do this online using a Government Gateway ID, and you'll also need proof of identity, such as a photo ID like a passport or driving licence.

If you live abroad, you can apply for your National Insurance record by post through a PDU1 certificate. Full details can be found here.

For expats considering voluntary contributions, it's important to understand that these won't always increase your State Pension. This is often the case if you were contracted out, details of which can be found here.

If you're living or working abroad and are over or within six months of reaching State Pension age, then the official advice is to contact the International Pension Centre (IPC) for further guidance. There are several ways to get in touch with the IPC: online, by phone, or by post.

Online: You can reach out to the IPC via email using the online enquiry form on GOV. UK.

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Please note that at the time of writing, official advice indicates that responses to online enquiries may take longer than usual.

Telephone: You can call the IPC regarding the State Pension on +44 (0) 191 218 7777 or +44 (0) 191 218 7280.

Post: You can write to the IPC at the following address:.

The Pension Service 11.

Mail Handling Site A.

Wolverhampton.

WV98 1LW.

United Kingdom.