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Am I Elegible?Is this Real?Our ProcessHow It WorksWhy Use Us?About
UsContactFeesQuestions?
‍CALL US IN IRELAND: + 353 (0)91 335 583
‍CALL US IN IRELAND:
‍+353 (0) 91 335 583

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please search using different words.



Our Service: What Does XtraPension’s Service Give Me?


To get any UK State Pension you need to have paid at least 10 years of National
Insurance contributions.
To get a full UK State Pension worth approx. £10,600 / €12,200 every year from
State Pension age (approx 67) requires 35 years of contributions.

The current UK Government opportunity allows you to reach the minimum of 10
years of contributions very cheaply - even if you only worked in the UK for as
little as one year many decades ago (HMRC terms & criteria apply here)

You pay us to ask HMRC on your behalf - in the right way with the correct
information and supporting evidence - if you can pay them a particular type of
voluntary National Insurance contribution for both past years and potentially
future years until you reach UK State Pension age.

If HMRC say 'YES', you can then choose to pay them a certain amount of money
directly that will depend on your circumstances / work history / age. We do not
get involved in your payment to HMRC.

Making this payment to HMRC gets and maximises a UK State Pension for you at
minimal cost which you otherwise would not be able to get. This would then be an
extra pension for you in addition to any other state / private pension / income
you have in retirement.

If you’re unsure as to whether this makes financial sense for you or not (and it
very much does make sense for people who expect to live beyond age 70), speak to
a person you trust who is good with finances. 

Here’s a sample of a POSITIVE Assessment from HMRC.

If HMRC say 'NO', you will get a full refund from XtraPension Ltd and you'll be
in the same position as you are now.

Here’s a sample of a REJECTION Assessment from HMRC.


Example: Can I See a Simple Example of How This Works?


The 3 Year Rule: How Do I Become Eligible for This Opportunity?


You need to have lived or worked in the UK for at least 3 years to be eligible
to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions – but read on...

A: LIVING: If you lived in the UK for 3 years and then worked or were officially
unemployed for just a short time immediately before leaving the UK, you may be
eligible. Call the International Pension Centre on +44 191 218 7777 to check
your eligibility.
If you’re eligible, then use XtraPension’s service to apply to pay voluntary
contributions in order to get your UK State Pension.

Note: Time spent living in Europe may also be counted towards the 3 years of
living in the UK at HMRC’s discretion but you will need to provide evidence of
this Non-UK residency.

B: WORKING: For 99% of people however, proving you paid 3 years in a row of
National / Social Insurance is the key eligibility factor used by HMRC to
determine if you can pay voluntary National Insurance contributions, which you
need in order to maximise your UK StatePension.

Note: You are also eligible if you paid just 1 full year of National Insurance
in the UK followed immediately by work - where you paid social insurance - in
any European country to bring you over the 3 year threshold.

 * "Years" in the table means years worked where you paid National/ Social
   Insurance.
 * "Europe" means an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland or
   Turkey.
 * Where social insurance was paid in Europe, this must have been immediately
   AFTER the UK year(s)

If you are unsure of the National Insurance you have paid, we recommend that you
check your National Insurance record

Cases Which Qualify:
‍3+ years in UK
OR
1 year in UK + 2 years in an EU country
OR
2 years in UK + 1 year in an EU country


Get Your National Insurance Number: How Do I Find My Old National Insurance
Number(NINO)?


Finding your old National Insurance Number avoids potential delays / problems.

DO NOT KNOW your National Insurance Number?

No problem. Tell us the following instead:

A - Your last 3 UK Home addresses

B - Approx when you lived there

C -The Postcodes are important so please try and find them

Tip! Use Google Maps & www.PostcodeFinder.net to help you.

‍

By Phone: You can NOT get your National Insurance number over the phone.

But - If you still have access to your old UK address that HMRC has on record
for you, simply call them on +44 191 203 7010 (8am - 6pm) They will ask you some
security questions. They will post your National Insurance number to you. It
takes 2-3 weeks.



Get Your Statement: What Type of Official Document / Statement Do I Need to Send
XtraPension?


For People in Ireland:

1 – If Using MyWelfare.ie…


 * Take 60 seconds to login & request a ‘PRSI Contributions Statement’ that you
   will have in 24 hours.
 * Watch for an email in approx 24 hours saying it’s ready.
 * Then Login again and download the Statement we need showing all your PRSI
   payments.
 * Attach this document and just reply to the 'Welcome to XtraPension' email you
   got from us



<<<< WATCH NEW VIDEO >>>>

2 – If NOT Using MyWelfare.ie…

(Using MyWelfare.ie above is better because then we won't have to annoy you
about poor quality scans of your paper PRSI statement which HMRC will reject)


 * Take 2 minutes to call 0818 690 690 (option 4) for the Dept of Social
   Protection (Records Section) in Buncrana, Donegal
 * Have your PPSN ready
 * Ask them to post you a PRSI Statement. It takes a week

* You will then need to make a clear, non-blurred scan of ALL pages in full with
Dept logo etc

For Everyone

We need to prove to HMRC that you have paid Social Insurance / Social Security /
Superannuation outside the UK from either 2006 (or later if that’s when you left
the UK).

If you alternatively worked back and forth between the UK / abroad over the
years, we recommend getting this document for every year since 2006 from the
Revenue / Tax authority in whichever country(s) you worked in.
‍
Below are some samples of documents you can get from different countries which
are the evidence we need to give HMRC to ensure you pay the minimum while
maximising your UK State Pension income.

 * USA
 * Ireland
 * Australia
 * Italy
 * Spain


Check Your Record: Why Should I Check My National Insurance Record?


It’s a good idea to check your National Insurance Record if you...


 * Want to know which years you should pay HMRC for when we get you a POSITIVE
   Assessment
 * Worked part-time in the UK and don’t know if you paid enough National
   Insurance per year
 * Moved jobs / travelled / freelanced a lot in the past
 * Went to 3rd level education / worked part-time / worked briefly full-time in
   the UK before emigrating.
 * Are not sure if you paid National Insurance while self-employed
 * Are not sure if an employer paid National Insurance for you
 * Were ‘Contracted Out’
 * Etc...


How Long? How Long Does This Process Take with HMRC?


Forecast: Why Do I Need to Check My UK State Pension Forecast?


You don’t but depending on your personal circumstances, it can be useful. For
example, if you were ‘contracted out’, it lets you know what to expect.

However, the Pension forecast is more useful and relevant to people living in
the UK as it’s assumptions are based on this. It’s a lot less relevant to people
living abroad.



Australia: I'm in Australia. Explain this to me please.


Whether you’re a British exPat in Oz for decades or an Aussie who spent time
working in the UK, this opportunity applies to you if you qualify based on time
spent living / working in the UK.

The following video explains how it works in Australia.



New Zealand: I'm in New Zealand. Explain this to me please.


Whether you’re a British exPat in New Zealand for decades or a Kiwi who did ‘The
Big OE’ working in the UK years ago, this opportunity applies to you if you
qualify based on time spent living / working in the UK.

The following video explains how it works in New Zealand.


Note: Changes in New Zealand law from 9 November 2020 mean any part of an
overseas pension which has been gained from making voluntary contributions is
NOT deducted from New Zealand Superannuation. See Govt info


USA: I'm in America. Explain this to me please.


Whether you’re a British exPat in the USA for decades or an American who spent
time working in the UK years ago, this opportunity applies to you if you qualify
based on time spent living / working in the UK.

The rules for people in the USA paying voluntary National Insurance
contributions are the same as anywhere else but the main thing British exPats
need to be aware of is the Windfall Elimination Provision (‘WEP’)

Paying voluntary contributions towards your UK State Pension may impact your
Social Security benefits under the WEP, but it can also increase your overall
combined income from both Social Security and the UK State Pension – so for most
people, paying voluntary contributions is still a financially very smart thing
to do.

There’s a good explanation of how WEP works on this 3rd party website (no
affiliation)

Older: I'm over 67 Years old. Can I still get a UK State Pension?


Yes. Assuming that you’re eligible based on the time you worked / lived in the
UK, you are able to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions from the
later of 2006 or when you left the UK up until you reached State Pension age -
Check your State Pension Age here

You can potentially buy years from 2006 using our service up until you reach
State Pension age if you're a man born after 5 April 1951 or a woman born after
5 April 1953.

Example: If you worked in the UK for 4 years in the 1980’s and then turned 67
years old in 2020, you would now be able to pay 15 years of voluntary National
Insurance contributions giving you 19 years in total on contributions.

This would allow you to then get 19 x 35ths of the full UK State Pension (which
is 19 x 35th’s of £10,600 / €12,200 = £5,754 / €6,622 every year from State
Pension Age)

‍

State Pension Age: How Can I Find Out my UK State Pension Age?


Check it easily here: https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age

Your Dates: Why It’s Important to get Your Dates Right


Last UK Work: What Do I Need to Provide Here?


Questions: What If My Questions are Not Answered Here?


How do I go about making voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension?


To make voluntary contributions, buy our service and follow our process.

Then we will apply to HMRC on your behalf. We'll also deal with any questions
you may have and will guide you when HMRC send their assessment of your
application.

We’ll also keep you updated on any developments with your application and will
handle any HMRC requests for additional information.


What happens if I only worked in the UK for 1 or 2 years? Can I still apply for
a UK state pension?


See our 3 year rule explanation here


What age do I have to be to claim the UK State Pension?


You need to reach the State Pension age. Please see the UK State Pension age
calculator https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age

What is the benefit of making voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension?


Making voluntary contributions increases your State Pension entitlement if you
have gaps in your National Insurance record. It allows you to fill in those gaps
and maximise your State Pension income.


Is there any disadvantage of making voluntary contributions towards a UK State
Pension?


The downside is that any extra pension you receive may not outweigh the
contributions made if you die very young due to poor health for example. You
will receive nothing at all if you die before state pension age.


How many years can I go back to make voluntary contributions?


Until April 2025, you can buy back years from 2006 until now. After April 2025,
you will only be able to buy back a maximum of 6 years to fill gaps in your
National Insurance record.


What's the urgency in making voluntary contributions?


The abolition of the cheap Class 2 National Insurance rate which is currently
available to eligible people living outside the UK is expected at some point
soon thereby increasing the cost of topping up past years 5-fold.

In addition, there is currently up to 12 months of a waiting list for HMRC to
process applications to pay voluntary contributions. The longer you leave it,
the longer the queue will be and more importantly, if there are any problems
with your application, you're unlikely to be able to take advantage of this
opportunity so may lose out on getting a UK State Pension before the current
deadline expires.

If I backdate my contributions to 2006 / when I left the UK, do I need to
continue making them from now on?


You can choose. Once you've bought back years to fill any gaps in your National
Insurance record, most people also try to buy future years - if they can - until
they reach 35 years of contributions or State Pension age. But you can choose
which years you buy either forwards or backwards. Note that the ability to buy
2006-2019 years will be gone from April 2025.


How much does it cost to make a voluntary contribution to the UK State Pension?


Class 2 National Insurance Contributions (NICs) costs £179 (€206) per year and
Class 3 costs £907 (€1,046) as of April 2023. If you're abroad after working at
least 3 years in a row in the UK (and/or Europe), you should be eligible to pay
Class 2 NICs for at least some of the years you’ve been abroad provided you meet
some stringent criteria from HMRC.


Which class of contributions will I pay: Class 2 or Class 3?


It depends on your personal circumstances. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an
estimate of what you're likely to have to pay.

If HMRC require you to pay Class 2, you will ‘break even’ within 7 months at
most of retiring whereas if you need to pay Class 3, you will ‘break even’ by
age 70 – ie, within 3 years of retiring. So both options are very financially
prudent if you expect to live beyond age 70.

How long do you have to contribute to qualify for the maximum UK State Pension?


To qualify for the maximum UK State Pension, you generally need 35 years of
qualifying National Insurance contributions. However, it's important to note
that the rules for calculating the State Pension can be complex, and individual
circumstances may vary. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate of what
you're likely to have to pay.

How much is the UK State Pension at present?


The amount of your UK State Pension will vary depending on your personal
circumstances. As of April 2023, the full State Pension is £10,600 (€12,200) per
year.

However, this amount may be subject to changes in government policy and annual
adjustments due to inflation etc where applicable


Do I receive a higher State Pension if I am married?


Not if you live outside the UK. Within the UK, you may be eligible for an
additional amount called the "Married Couple's Allowance" if you are married and
your spouse has not claimed their State Pension yet. This additional allowance
is designed to provide some support to couples, and the specific amount may vary
depending on individual circumstances.


Will my spouse receive the State Pension after I die?


Not if you're living outside the UK

Can I do this myself online for free without paying for a service like
XtraPension?


Yes. But if you tick any wrong boxes, can’t remember relevant dates or UK
addresses where you lived, are unsure whether or not you were ‘ordinarily
resident’ in the UK on the day you left the UK, and are happy to take a chance
that you will get and can act on the HMRC assessment sent to your non-UK address
while allowing enough time for your payment to reach HMRC before their
deadline... if you’re confident in all that, then yes, you can do it yourself
without paying anyone.

But if you make one mistake (and some of the HMRC guidance is not black/white),
then our service will have paid for itself. Our 100% Money-Back Guarantee also
eliminates your risk completely of course.

Many people find pensions, tax matters and the related bureaucracy confusing and
stressful given their personal circumstances so we take all that hassle away and
just make things very simple for you.


Can I use my UK National Insurance payments to top up my Irish/European pension?


UK National Insurance payments cannot be directly used to top up an
Irish/European pension. The UK and Ireland have separate pension systems, and
contributions made in one country do not automatically transfer or contribute to
the pension entitlement in the other country. Each pension system operates
independently.

However UK NICs can be taken into account in order to qualify for the Irish
contributory state pension which is the reverse of the 3 Year rule explained
here.

Can I choose to pay voluntary contributions for some years and not others?


Yes. You can choose which years you want to make voluntary contributions for.
It's not mandatory to pay contributions for every year, and you have the
flexibility to select the years that will benefit you the most in terms of
filling gaps in your record or increasing your pension entitlement, ideally
while paying the cheaper Class 2 rather than Class 3 if you’re eligible.


I have an unusual work history, including periods of unemployment,
self-employment, or non-traditional employment. How does that affect my UK State
Pension?


Provided you're eligible via UK Living or Working as outlined on the 3 Years
rule, you're the same as everyone else.


The UK pension system changed in 2016. How does that affect me?


The pension system changes introduced in 2016 include the introduction of the
new State Pension. This replaced the previous basic State Pension and additional
State Pension. The new system aims to provide a single, flat-rate pension based
on a minimum number of qualifying years. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an
estimate.

What is the retirement age in the UK?


The retirement age in the UK is not fixed and depends on your date of birth. The
age from which you can claim your State Pension is 65-68 depending on your birth
year. The government has plans to increase the retirement age further in the
coming years.

Please see the UK State Pension age calculator
https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age

What about a typical person in their 30s today who worked in the UK for five
years after leaving college?


The specific impact of an individual's pension entitlement would depend on your
overall National Insurance record and the number of qualifying years they have
for both the UK and non-UK pensions.

Working in the UK for 5 years will likely mean you can get a full UK State
Pension if you pay for 5 extra years to get you to the 10 years of contributions
threshold.

See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

Can you buy back years after reaching the UK State Pension age?


Yes. You can potentially buy years from 2006 using our service up until you
reach State Pension age if you're a man born after 5 April 1951 or a woman born
after 5 April 1953.


Can you buy back years after you are already receiving a partial UK State
Pension?


Yes


Does the option to make voluntary contributions apply to people who have not yet
reached the UK State Pension age?


Yes, the option to make voluntary contributions is available to individuals who
have not yet reached the UK State Pension age and have qualifying years
remaining assuming they’re eligible.

This can be an opportunity to fill gaps in their National Insurance record and
potentially increase their future pension entitlement.  See our Am I Eligible?
tool to get an estimate.

Do cross-border years qualify for Class 2 voluntary National Insurance
contributions for Irish people?


Cross-border years can potentially qualify for Class 2 voluntary National
Insurance contributions. However, the eligibility criteria and specific rules
can be complex, and it's advisable to seek professional advice to determine how
your cross-border years may affect your contributions and pension entitlement.


What evidence do I need to send off to verify that I was or am working abroad?


The evidence required to verify your employment may vary. It can include
employment contracts, payslips, or any other relevant documentation that
confirms your employment status and earnings.

Sending a statement proving your social insurance/security/Super payments since
you left the UK is what we recommend. See more info on the type of statement
here




How would HMRC know whether a person living abroad is working or not?


They require proof. They usually also have data-sharing agreements with Revenue
/ Tax authorities in most major countries to gather information on you and your
employment status. See more info on the type of statement here


Could the rules change before I can draw down my UK State Pension?


Yes. Pension rules can change over time, and it's possible that there may be
alterations to the rules or regulations before you reach the point of drawing
down your UK State Pension. Changes can occur due to government policies,
economic factors, or demographic considerations

But bear in mind that every UK Government wants to be returned to power in
elections so the rules that apply to your UK State pension entitlements /
contributions will also need to apply to those of UK citizens at home or abroad.

This is your guarantee that while there may be some tweaking / changes of the
rules before you retire, you will still get your UK State Pension entitlement.


What happens if the UK decides to re-join the EU before our pension age?


No-one knows. If however you've paid enough UK National Insurance contributions
to get a UK state pension as well as enough payments to qualify for a state
pension in your own country, it's highly likely that you would be entitled to
both pensions.


Does this opportunity apply to someone who is already retired? I’m 78.


No. You can buy the years from 2006 using our service if you're a man born after
5 April 1951 or a woman born after 5 April 1953.


How long does it take to confirm eligibility and determine which class of
contributions you're entitled to pay once the application has been received by
HMRC?


The processing time for confirming eligibility and determining the appropriate
class of contributions is approx 8 months for people in Europe or up to 12
months for people outside Europe. Note that these processing times have been
growing month on month for the last 2 years.


How much extra pension will I receive if I make voluntary contributions?


See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

What must I do to ensure that my window of opportunity for voluntary
contributions stays open?


Apply now so that you have the option to take advantage of the opportunity. Then
decide when the HMRC assessment arrives in 8+ months what you would like to do.


What can I do to try to ensure that I can pay Class 2 contributions before the
deadline?


Choose one of our services and follow the simple steps outlined


What forms of identification are required when applying for the UK State
Pension?


None. Your National Insurance Number serves the identification purpose. Not
having it means you cannot take advantage of this opportunity.


I am 50. Should I make Class 3 contributions to the UK State Pension?


The decision to make Class 3 contributions depends on your individual
circumstances, including your National Insurance record and financial situation.

Making Class 3 contributions is likely better than nothing however as they pay
for themselves within 3 years of retiring. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an
estimate.

I studied in the UK but never worked there. Can I qualify for the UK State
Pension based on my education period?


No.

I worked part-time while a student in the UK. Do I qualify?


You might. It depends on if you qualify under the 3 year rule (which is very
possible even with part-time work).
‍
Check your National Insurance record first here and then decide whether or not
to use our service

How can I maximise both my UK and non-UK State Pension?


Maximizing both your UK and non-UK State Pensions involves ensuring that you
have the required qualifying years of contributions or credits in each system,
making voluntary contributions where applicable, and understanding any potential
interaction between the two pensions.


Is it a problem if I can't remember the exact date or if there is a month or two
of a gap before starting work outside the UK?


Ideally there should be no gap but if there is in your case, there’s nothing you
can really do. Look at the CHECKLIST on our Start page.

You will need to know your dates or HMRC will likely require you to pay
expensive Class 3 rates which are approx 5 times those of the cheaper Class 2
rates. Class 3 £907 (€1,046) V Class 2 £179 (€206) per year from April 2023

Is there another way to top up the National Insurance contributions for the UK
pension if I seem to be short in the required years of work in the UK?


No.


Can the combined pensions from both an EU and UK State Pension exceed 2/3’s of
my final salary?


Yes. But like all income, pensions from whichever source are taxed at the usual
rates.


I worked in the UK for 4/6/8/15 years. Can I, and should I, pay voluntary
National Insurance payments?


Probably yes. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

Is there any benefit to paying voluntary National Insurance contributions beyond
the 10 year minimum?


Yes. If you pay the maximum amount of voluntary contributions available to you,
you will ‘break even’ on your payments to HMRC within either 7 months at best,
or 3 years at worst of your State Pension age.

‍Paying HMRC now allows you to maximise your UK State Pensionentitlement.
Otherwise you would only get 10/35’s of the full UK State Pension- £10,600
(€12,200) annually as of April 2023.
 
See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

Am I legally required to advise either the UK State and my Non-UK state of the
other pension I receive?


Maybe. There may be legal or tax obligations to notify the relevant authorities
about pensions received from other countries, depending on the regulations and
reporting requirements in both UK and non-UK countries.


Can I receive both a UK pension and a full non-UK State Pension simultaneously?


Yes. There are however issues like "Frozen pensions" which apply in Commonwealth
countries.

See if your country is on the UK 'Frozen' list here

Will my non-UK State Pension be reduced because I have a UK State Pension?


It depends on where you live.

In the EU / USA etc, usually no.

In New Zealand, no on the voluntary contributions element of your UK pension due
to the Nov 2020 changes to the NZ Social Security Act 2018 (section 187E) See
our video here

In Australia, where the Age Pension is means tested, see our video here

Can I pay voluntary contributions to get above 10 years of contributions and
receive a pension?


Yes. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

How can I obtain a record from the UK of my National Insurance payments?


To obtain a record of your National Insurance payments in the UK, you can check
your National Insurance contributions record from HMRC. We do not typically
recommend this as there is no real advantage for customers who want to apply to
fill the gaps in their National Insurance record – unless you are unsure of your
work history and dates.

See this video

Is there a way of calculating pension costs / expected income based on the
number of total contributions made?


Yes. See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

Is it possible to receive a full UK State Pension and a partial Irish/EU one?


Yes. It is possible to receive a full UK State Pension and a partial Irish/EU
pension.

UK and EU pensions operate independently, and if you meet the eligibility
criteria for both, you can receive pensions from both jurisdictions
simultaneously.

The specific amounts and calculations will depend on your National Insurance
record, pension entitlements, and individual circumstances


Do cross-border years qualify for Class 2 voluntary National Insurance
contributions?


Cross-border years may qualify for Class 2 voluntary National Insurance
contributions, but the eligibility and specific rules can be complex. It's
advisable to contact the Dept of Work & Pensions (DWP) or seek professional
advice to understand how cross-border years may affect your contributions and
pension entitlement, and whether Class 2 contributions are applicable in your
situation.


How do I go about paying for the gaps in my National Insurance contributions?


Pick an XtraPension service and start your application today!

How do I make payments to HMRC for voluntary National Insurance contributions?


Payments can be made directly to HMRC from your bank.

XtraPension do NOT handle payments to HMRC. This is entirely your responsibility
but we guide you every step of the way.


Can I pay into 2 state pension systems for the same years?


Yes. That's what this UK State Pension opportunity provides for.


Does HMRC allow you to pay for individual years, or are you obliged to pay for
all years at once?


You can choose which years to buy.


Is there a deadline for paying National Insurance contributions when HMRC send
their assessment?


Yes. Currently it’s April 2025 but note the processing time of up to 12 months.


How long does it typically take HMRC to get my payment and have that reflected
on my National Insurance record?


This is a problem for everyone currently.

Your payment is usually received and allocated by HMRC within 2 months.

However, your National Insurance record can then take a FURTHER 12+ months to be
updated which scares a lot of people who think their payment has not gone to
HMRC when it has.

Note that XtraPension do NOT handle payments to HMRC.


Do I need to apply every year for future years or how do I pay HMRC annually
until I reach State Pension age or my 35 years of contributions?


We have an optional annual ‘Pension Keeper’ service that looks after this for
you, keeps you updated on UK state pension changes and reminds you how much to
pay when, annually.


How do I check if I am classified as Class 2 or Class 3 for National Insurance
contributions?


See our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate. But the HMRC assessment is the
definitive answer to this question. To get this, you'll need to apply using one
of our services.

How do I make backdated voluntary National Insurance contributions?


Choose one of our UK State Pension abroad services and follow the simple steps
outlined

After I left the UK, it took me a few months to settle in and get a job. Will I
be accepted for the cheap Class 2 contributions?


Maybe. The timing of the calendar months is critical in this case. Our service
helps ensure you maximise your UK state pension for the lowest possible cost.

What if I was working after I left the UK but am not currently employed? Can I
still be approved for cheap Class 2 contributions?


Probably yes for the years you were working abroad.

Where can I check my contributions to date and my entitlements?


You can check your contributions to date and your entitlements by accessing your
National Insurance record through the UK government's online services. The HMRC
provides an online portal where you can view your National Insurance
contributions and entitlements.

Is it possible to buy back UK voluntary National Insurance contributions for
years when I paid social insurance / social security abroad?


Yes. That's what the current UK state pension opportunity provides for.

I worked in the UK for 22 years. Will I be entitled to a UK pension?


Yes if you paid enough National Insurance during that time . See our Am I
Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

How do HMRC determine whether I am Class 2 or Class 3 for National Insurance
contributions?


The determination of whether you are Class 2 or Class 3 for National Insurance
contributions is based on specific criteria set by the government. Class 2
contributions are generally applicable to self-employed individuals who meet
certain conditions or people abroad, while Class 3 contributions are voluntary
contributions available to anyone who worked for 3 or more years in the UK

Would I be able to buy back contributions for the years 2006 to 2010,
considering I only obtained a UK National Insurance Number in 2010 when I moved
to the UK?


No. In this case, you are only able to buy years back from when you left the UK
- and assuming you worked there (and/or in Europe) for at least 3 years.

I am a year away from retiring, and I have enough credits to claim pensions in
both UK and the country where I live now. Can I receive both pensions
simultaneously?


Yes. Just ensure you have taken advantage of the current opportunity to top up
any gaps in your UK National Insurance record.

I will get a UK "New State Pension." Will my wife receive anything if I
predecease her?


Not if you both live outside the UK

How many years of contributions do you need for a full UK State Pension?


To qualify for a full UK State Pension, you generally need to have accumulated
35 years of National Insurance contributions. Or for example if you had 11 years
contributions, you would get 11/35's of the full pension.

How do I go about paying back the shortfall in National Insurance contributions?


Choose one of our UK State Pension abroad services and follow the simple steps
outlined. We guide you through the whole process.

Can I really pay into 2 state systems for the same years of contributions?


Yes. That's why the current UK State Pension opportunity is so incredibly good
and is seeing such huge demand from people everywhere.

How do I check my eligibility for the UK State Pension


See our Am I Eligible? tool to find out.

Can I receive a UK State Pension if I live outside the UK?


Yes

What happens if I have gaps in my National Insurance contributions?


Our services help you fill in as many gaps in your record as possible, thereby
helping you to maximise your UK State Pension entitlement.

How can I estimate how much I will get in my UK State Pension?


Use our Am I Eligible? tool to get an estimate.

Can I receive the UK State Pension and another pension simultaneously?


Yes. You can receive the UK State Pension along with other pensions, such as
workplace pensions or private pensions from different countries incl Australian
Age Pension or NZ Super / KiwiSaver etc.

Can I defer claiming the UK State Pension?


Yes, you can defer claiming the UK State Pension. Doing so increases your state
pension by 5.8% for every year you defer according to HMRC. And it only
increases if you defer for at least 9 weeks.

What happens to my UK State Pension if I moved abroad?


If you moved abroad, you can still get your UK State Pension.

The payment can be made into your bank account in the country where you reside,
or it can be paid to a UK bank account.

Can I transfer my UK State Pension to another country's pension system?


No. The UK State Pension cannot be transferred to another country's pension
system.
‍
But you will be able to receive your UK State Pension while living in another
country.


What is the triple lock guarantee for the UK State Pension?


The triple lock guarantee is a policy that ensures the UK State Pension
increases each year by the highest of average earnings growth, inflation, or
2.5%. This has been a political issue in recent years and may be changed at some
point due to it’s substantial cost to the UK.


What is the difference between the "old" and "new" UK State Pension?


The ‘old’ UK State Pension is based on different rules and entitlements compared
to the ‘new’ UK State Pension. The new system generally requires 35 qualifying
years and has a different calculation method for pension amounts.


Can I receive a UK State Pension if I have not lived or worked in the UK?


No


Can I inherit my spouse's UK State Pension if they pass away?


Your State Pension will normally stop being paid when you die. But sometimes,
your husband, wife, or civil partner could inherit some of your State Pension.
This depends on:


 * The amount of National Insurance contributions you both made and  
 * when you both reached, or will reach, State Pension age.

Are UK State Pension payments adjusted for inflation?


Yes, UK State Pension payments are index-linked / adjusted annually in line with
inflation. This ensures that the value of the pension keeps up with the cost of
living.

However - This does not apply in Commonwealth countries where your UK state
pension will be index-linked (increased with inflation) annually until you reach
state pension age, but indexation will cease being applied from the date you
become entitled to receive benefits.

This is called the ‘Frozen’ pension issue. This is not a big issue for most
people, but worth noting. See if your country is on the UK 'Frozen' list here


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am self-employed?


Yes if you qualify. Check with our Am I Eligible? tool.


What happens to my UK State Pension if I work abroad after retirement age?


If you work abroad after reaching the UK State Pension age, your pension will
generally continue to be paid as usual. However, there may be specific rules and
limits regarding the amount of additional income you can earn before it affects
your pension income as is the case for eg in Australia.


How can I update my personal details for the UK State Pension?


We'll do this for you as part of our service. You will need your National
Insurance number however.


Can I receive a UK State Pension if I am living in the UK as a non-UK citizen?


Your eligibility for the UK State Pension is based on your National Insurance
contributions or qualifying years, rather than your nationality / citizenship.


How much National Insurance Contributions (NICs) will I need to pay?


The class of NICs you have to pay for will depend on your circumstance whether
you are employed, self-employed, or can pay voluntary NICs. Our process takes
care of this for you.


How much do I have to pay for Class 2 and Class 3?


Class 2 costs £179 (€206) per year and Class 3 costs £907 (€1,046) per year as
of April 2023. If you have worked abroad after leaving the UK, we help to ensure
you only pay the cheaper Class 2 - depending on your eligibility.


I'm an Aussie. Can I get my UK state pension in Australia?


Yes. Like with most other non-UK countries, if you live permanently in
Australia, your UK State Pension will be taxed alongside other Australian
earnings.  Watch our explainer



How often will I receive my State Pension?


Monthly, quarterly or annually as you prefer


When will my UK State Pension commence?


Please see the UK State Pension age calculator


Can I get a UK State Pension if I’m age 67 / 68 / 69 / 70 / 71 / 72 & live
outside the UK?


This is for men born after 5 April 1951 and women born after 5 April 1953.

If you’re over the UK state pension age, you can still pay voluntary National
Insurance contributions from the later of, when you left the UK or 2006, up
until State Pension age.

So if you’re 70 years old in 2023 but left the UK before 2006, you would be able
to apply to buy 15 years from the tax year 2006/2007 up until and including
2020/2021 when you became 67.

We will submit your application as standard to HMRC who typically then pass it
to Dept of Work & Pensions (‘DWP’) due to your age.

This can take from 8-12 months to get a reply depending on if you live in Europe
or not.

You need a minimum 10 years of contributions which you probably don’t have right
now to be eligible to receive any UK pension.

That’s the problem we’re trying fix here.

HMRC will pass your application & details to DWP who will write to you (and/or
potentially us as your agent) confirming your eligibility to pay them for past
years from 2006/7 up until you reach State Pension age.

You pay HMRC directly and then it can take up to an additional 12 months for
your National Insurance record to be updated on this system which is
administered by HMRC.

Once your National Insurance record is updated, any UK pension you have already
started to receive from DWP will then be backdated accordingly to when HMRC
received your payment.

Start the process here


How does the UK State Pension Entitlement Work?


If you have worked and paid National Insurance in the UK for a minimum of 3
years and you have 10 years of NI contributions, you are entitled to a UK State
pension.

You need 35 years of contributions for the full UK state pension which is
£10,600 (€12,200) per year as of April 2023.

If for eg you have only 11 years of contributions, you will receive 11/35's of
the full pension. £3,331 (€3,800) annually from age 67.


Should I get a UK State Pension statement first / is it helpful?


You can get it online if you are first registered with the UK Government
Gateway.

We never request customer's pension statements from HMRC initially as it doesn't
change the fact that you still need to apply in the normal manner to be eligible
to fill the gaps in your National Insurance record.

And if you left the UK after working there, you know when you left - so use our
Am I Eligible? tool to get a good estimate.


Can I get my UK State Pension paid weekly?


No


Can I get my UK State Pension early?


No. The earliest you can claim your UK state pension is when you reach your
state pension age.


Can I get my UK state pension in .....Thailand / Spain / India / EU / ANYWHERE?


Yes


How do I check if there are any gaps in my National Insurance Record?


If you have not paid UK National Insurance since you left the UK, you have gaps.
Our service fixes that problem.

See our video explainer here


How much State Pension will I get?


You need 35 years of contributions for the full UK state pension which is
£10,600 (€12,200) per year as of April 2023.

If for eg you have only 11 years of contributions, you will only receive 11 x
35's of the full pension. £3,331 (€3,800) annually from State Pension age.


I divorced and remarried – Which wedding date should I use when applying?


Your most recent wedding date


Who qualifies for a UK State pension?


You qualify for a UK State pension if you have at least 10 qualifying years on
your National Insurance record and if one or more of the following applies to
you:

a) you were working and paid Nat Insurance Contributions (NICs)
‍
b) you were getting NI credits
‍
c) you were paying voluntary NICs


How do I get the maximum UK State Pension?


To get the maximum UK State Pension, you will need 35 qualifying years.

These are usually years that you have worked in the UK.

The XtraPension service helps to buy additional years by making voluntary
National Insurance contributions.


Will I have to pay tax on my UK state pension?


Probably. Your UK State Pension is simply another source of income in your
retirement which is taxed based on the tax rules of where you live. If you
worked part-time in retirement, the same would apply to that income.  

(See our Australian pension explainer and our New Zealand pension explainer


Are UK expats entitled to a pension?


Yes. We've lots of customers who are UK people who moved abroad decades ago and
who presumed they would notget a UK state pension.

They can very easily using our service. Use our Am I Eligible? tool to get an
estimate.


What is the new UK State Pension?


The new UK State Pension is a regular payment from the government to people who
have met the qualifications and have reached the state pension age.

It can be claimed by people who have at least 10 years of National insurance
contributions and are either: a man born on or after 6 April 1951 or a woman
born on or after 6 April 1953. If you were born before these dates, you can
claim the old state pension.


When can I claim my new State Pension?


You can start the claim process as early as 4 months prior to reaching the state
pension age but the actual payment will start when you reach the state pension
age.

Please see the UK State Pension age calculator
https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age


Can I request backdating of my state pension?


Yes, if you claim your state pension after you reach your state pension age, you
have the option to backdate your state pension to a maximum period of 12 months.


Can I claim my State Pension and keep working?


Yes, you can claim your state pension and keep working. Any money that you earn
will not affect your state pension. However, since the state pension is taxable,
it may put you into higher tax band when added to your earnings.


Do I have to pay National Insurance when I continue working even after I reach
the state pension age?


No, you will not have to pay National Insurance anymore if you keep working when
you reach your state pension age.


Can I use my partner’s contributions?


The State Pension is based on your own contributions. Generally, you will not be
able to claim your spouse or partner's contributions at retirement.


Can I transfer my private UK pension when I move abroad?


Transferring your private UK pension to a pension arrangement abroad may be
possible if the pension plan is a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme
(QROPS).

To qualify as a QROPS, there are strict criteria to be met.

We partner with regulated financial advisors in your country who can advise you
properly on all aspects of your private pension(s).


How do I ensure I maximise my UK State Pension entitlements?


Use XtraPension!


Can I be paid in different countries?


Yes


What bank account can my UK State Pension be paid into?


Your UK state pension can be paid into: a) a bank in the country you are living
in or b) a bank in the UK. You can get it paid in a bank account under your
name, joint account, someone else's account, or overseas account.


What benefits do I get if I put off claiming my UK State Pension?


By deferring your claim, you may be able to get paid more. This is called State
Pension Deferral. The extra money you get will depend on how long you defer or
put off your claim.


What is State Pension Deferral?


State Pension Deferral is when you put off your state pension claim. This means
delaying when you start getting paid or choosing to stop claiming your state
pension for a particular period of time.


What are my options for working when I reach my State Pension age?


If you are working when you reach your State Pension age, your options are:

a) continue working and claim your state pension

b) continue working and put off claiming your state pension

c) stop working and claim your state pension

d) stop working and put off claiming your state pension


How many years do I have to work in the UK to get a State pension?


You're eligible if you qualify under the 3 Years rule

You will also need a minimum of 10 qualifying years on your National Insurance
record.

To get the full UK State Pension, you will need 35 qualifying years.

If for eg you have only 11 years of contributions, you will only receive 11/35's
of the full pension. £3,331 (€3,800) annually from State Pension age.


Is the UK State Pension forecast statement that HMRC sends accurate?


Quite often not which is why we don't usually request it initially for
customers. The statement is only an estimate and might not reflect exactly what
you will get. Checking your National Insurance record is more useful for you if
you live outside the UK.


What information do I need to apply for UK State Pension?


See the information you'll need here


What’s is the difference between Class 2 and Class 3 National Insurance
contributions?


Class 2 contributions are generally for self-employed individuals or those
abroad, while Class 3 contributions are voluntary contributions available to
anyone who wants to fill gaps in their National Insurance record.


Can I make voluntary contributions if I have never worked in the UK?


No. Voluntary contributions are only for individuals who have worked and
accumulated qualifying years in the UK.


Are there any age limits for making voluntary contributions?


Yes. You can buy back years from 2006 using our service up until state pension
age (typically 67) if you're a man born after 5 April 1951 or a woman born after
5 April 1953.


Can I make voluntary contributions now if I am already receiving a UK Private
pension?


Yes. Receiving a private pension does not affect your ability to make voluntary
contributions to the UK State Pension.


What happens to my UK State Pension if I moved to an EU country?


Nothing. You can still receive your UK State Pension while living in any other
country. The payment can be made into your bank account in the country where you
reside, or it can be paid to a UK bank account.


Can I pay for my voluntary contributions in instalments rather than a lump sum?


Yes, you can choose to pay voluntary contributions in instalments. However, the
total amount must be paid within the specified time frame provided by HMRC.


How can I calculate the potential increase in my State Pension from voluntary
National Insurance contributions?


Use our Am I Eligible? tool to estimate the potential increase in your State
Pension based on the number of years of voluntary contributions you have made.


Can I claim back the payments for voluntary National Insurance contributions if
I change my mind?


No. Once the voluntary contributions have been paid, they are non-refundable.


Can I make voluntary National Insurance contributions now if I am already
receiving a UK workplace pension?


Yes. Receiving a workplace pension does not usually affect your ability to make
voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension.


Can I make voluntary National Insurance contributions if I am self-employed
abroad?


Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for making voluntary contributions and
have qualifying years remaining, you can make voluntary contributions to the UK
state pension even if you are self-employed abroad.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I have lived and worked in multiple
countries?


Yes. You will still be eligible for the UK State Pension if you have lived and
worked in multiple countries. The eligibility criteria are based on your
National Insurance contributions or qualifying years, regardless of where you
have lived or worked.


What happens if I have gaps in my National Insurance contributions due to being
a stay-at-home parent / raising a family with children?


No problem. Gaps in National Insurance contributions for family reasons can also
be filled through voluntary contributions, albeit typically at the more
expensive Class 3 rate. Our service will guide you on the options available to
fill those gaps.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am currently working and paying into
another pension scheme?


Yes, you can still receive the UK State Pension even if you are currently
working and paying into another pension scheme. The UK State Pension is separate
from other private or workplace pensions and regardless of the country you’re
in.


How can I calculate the potential increase in my State Pension if I defer
claiming it?


The increase in your State Pension for deferring the claim can be calculated
using the current deferral rate of 5.8% for each year of deferral according to
HMRC in 2023.


What happens to my UK State Pension if I move back to the UK after living
abroad?


If you move back to the UK after living abroad, your UK State Pension will
continue to be paid as usual.

More importantly, if you are coming from a Commonwealth country where your
pension is 'Frozen', it will now be restored to the standard index-linked
(inflation-adjusted) UK pension amount. You will need to inform the relevant
authorities of your change in address to ensure the payments are directed
correctly.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am a non-UK citizen and never lived in
the UK?


No. You will typically not have 3 continuous years of National Insurance
contributions in this case.


How can I find out if my country is on the UK 'Frozen' list for UK State Pension
increases?


The UK government provides a list of countries where the annual increase in the
State Pension is paid. You can find this Frozen Pension list on the official UK
government website or on this map


Can I transfer my UK State Pension to a private pension scheme?


No, the UK State Pension cannot be transferred to a private pension scheme. The
State Pension is a government benefit that is separate from private pension
arrangements.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I have never lived in the UK but have worked
for a UK-based company abroad?


Maybe. You may still be eligible for the UK State Pension if you have qualifying
National Insurance contributions. The eligibility criteria are based on your
contributions rather than your residence. Check your National Insurance record


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance
contributions due to being self-employed?


Yes, you can still receive the UK State Pension even if you have gaps in your
National Insurance contributions due to being self-employed. Voluntary
contributions can be made to fill those gaps and improve your UK State Pension
entitlement.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I lived in the UK for less than 10 years?


Yes. If you lived in the UK for less than 10 years, you can use this opportunity
to buy additional years from 2006 - or when you left the UK if later than 2006 -
which should get you a minimum of 10 years. The number of qualifying years then
determines the amount of pension you are entitled to.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance
contributions due to unemployment?


Yes. Gaps in National Insurance contributions due to unemployment can be filled
by making voluntary contributions. Our service can help guide you on the options
available to fill those gaps and maximize your pension entitlement. Check your
National Insurance record


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have worked part-time throughout my
career?


Yes, you can still receive the UK State Pension if you have worked part-time
throughout your career. The eligibility for the State Pension is based on the
number of qualifying years you have, regardless of whether you worked full-time
or part-time. Check your National Insurance record


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance
contributions due to working abroad?


Yes. Gaps in National Insurance contributions due to working abroad can be
filled through various means, such as making voluntary contributions. Our
service can provide guidance on the options available to fill those gaps and
ensure you maximize your pension entitlement.


Can I pay the full amount for my voluntary contributions in one go?


Yes, you can pay the full amount for your voluntary contributions in one go.


Can I pay voluntary contributions for the years when I was unemployed?


Yes, you can pay voluntary contributions for the years when you were unemployed
to fill in the gaps in your National Insurance record.


What happens if I don't make voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension?


If you don't make voluntary contributions, you may have gaps in your National
Insurance record, which can result in a lower State Pension amount when you
reach the eligible age or you may not reach the 10 year minimum threshold for
any payments.


Can I make voluntary contributions if I have been living outside the UK for
several years?


Yes, you can still make voluntary contributions even if you have been living
outside the UK. That's exactly who the XtraPension service helps.


Can I make voluntary contributions if I am self-employed outside the UK?


Yes, if you are self-employed outside the UK, you can still make voluntary
contributions to the UK State Pension.


What happens if I reach the State Pension age before I have 35 years of
contributions?


If you reach the State Pension age before you have 35 years of contributions,
you will still be eligible for a partial State Pension based on the number of
qualifying years you have assuming you have at least 10 qualifying years.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am currently receiving a pension from
another country?


Yes, you can receive the UK State Pension even if you are already receiving a
pension from another country. The two pensions operate independently.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I have never worked in the UK but have lived
there for a long time?


Yes. See the 3 Year rule


Can I make voluntary contributions if I have gaps in my National Insurance
record due to caring for children or other family members?


Yes, you can make voluntary contributions to fill in the gaps in your National
Insurance record if you have taken time off work to care for children or family
members.


What happens if I reach the State Pension age before I have 10 qualifying years
of contributions?


If you reach the State Pension age without a minimum of 10 qualifying years of
contributions, you will not be eligible to receive any UK State Pension. That's
why XtraPension offers it's services


Can I transfer my UK State Pension to another person?


No, the UK State Pension cannot be transferred to another person. It is personal
to the individual who has made the qualifying contributions.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am living in the UK temporarily?


Yes, you can receive the UK State Pension even if you are living in the UK
temporarily. Your eligibility is based on your National Insurance contributions,
regardless of your residency status.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance record
due to studying abroad?


Yes, you can receive the UK State Pension even if you are living in the UK
temporarily. Your eligibility is based on your National Insurance Number.
Periods of studying abroad generally do not count towards the UK State Pension.
You will need to have made qualifying National Insurance contributions to be
eligible.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am working abroad but paying UK National
Insurance contributions?


Yes, if you are working abroad but still paying UK National Insurance
contributions, you can receive the UK State Pension. Note you can still be
working abroad and in receipt of the UK state pension but you won’t be paying
NICs


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am working part-time in another country?


Your eligibility for the UK State Pension is based on your UK National Insurance
contributions. If you have made the qualifying contributions, you can receive
the UK State Pension regardless of your current employment status.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have lived and worked in multiple
countries?


Yes. Your eligibility for the UK State Pension will depend on your National
Insurance contributions in the UK.


Can I pay my voluntary National Insurance contributions in instalments?


Yes, you have the option to pay your voluntary National Insurance contributions
in instalments. This allows you to spread the cost over a period of time. Our
service guides you through the process.


Is there a time limit for making voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension
after leaving the UK?


Normally 6 years but currently you can buy years from April 2006 until now to
maximise your future pension entitlement as long as you do it before April 2025.


How can I calculate the impact of voluntary contributions on my future UK State
Pension amount?


Our Am I Eligible? tool provides a good estimate of the impact of voluntary
contributions on your future UK State Pension amount.


Can I apply for the UK State Pension if I have been living abroad for many
years?


Yes. You can apply for the UK State Pension even if you have been living abroad
for many years. As long as you have the required qualifying years of
contributions, you are eligible.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I am self-employed but have not paid
National Insurance contributions?


Maybe. See the 3 Years rule


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am receiving another country's pension?


Yes, you can receive the UK State Pension along with pensions from other
countries, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each pension.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance
contributions due to illness or disability?


Yes. Check your eligibility using our Am I Eligible? tool.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I am currently working in the UK?


Yes, you can receive the UK State Pension even if you are currently working in
the UK. Your pension will be based on your National Insurance contributions.


Can I receive the UK State Pension if I have gaps in my National Insurance
contributions due to maternity leave?


Yes. Check your eligibility using our Am I Eligible? tool.


I will get a UK "new State Pension." Will my wife receive anything if I
predecease her?


No. The new state pension is calculated on your personal National Insurance
payments only.’, but you might be able to get a payment called Bereavement
Support - £2,500 once off plus £100 per month for up to 18 months.


How is the UK State Pension affected by divorce or dissolution of civil
partnership?


The new State Pension can not be shared if your marriage or civil partnership
ends.


Can I inherit my spouse's UK State Pension if they pass away?


No but there may be an entitlement to 50% of the Protected Benefit, but this is
very unlikely and will be a very small amount.


Can I use my partner’s contributions?


The State Pension is based on your own contributions. Generally, you will not be
able to claim your spouse or partner's contributions at retirement.


Can I claim the UK State Pension if I have never lived in the UK but have worked
for a UK-based company abroad?


Maybe. You may still be eligible for the UK State Pension if you have qualifying
National Insurance contributions. The eligibility criteria are based on your
contributions rather than your residence.


Do I receive a higher State Pension if I am married?


No


Can I use my UK National Insurance payments to top up my Irish/EU pension


UK National Insurance payments cannot be directly used to top up an Irish
pension but rather, it can help you to qualify for Irish contributory state
pension benefits but the value will be calculated on your Irish contributions
only. Using UK National Insurance contributions for this purpose does not reduce
their value in the UK pension system.


Which UK Government Departments Deal with my UK State Pension?


HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is the custodian and administrator of UK National
Insurance records. The Dept of Work & Pensions (DWP) administer the UK state
pension based on National Insurance records. If you are within one year of State
retirement age, HMRC may pass your application to pay voluntary National
Insurance to DWP.


I’m in America so isn’t it true that the Windfall Elimination Provision (‘WEP’)
makes it a bad idea to pay voluntary contributions towards my UK state pension?


No. If you have less than 30 years paying into US Social Security and you’re
eligible for a UK state pension, then your Social Security benefits will be
reduced. The fewer years you have paid into US social security, the greater the
reduction.

However… the WEP penalty is capped at a maximum of 50% of your UK state pension.
So by increasing your UK State Pension entitlement you will likely increase your
WEP penalty, but you will also increase your overall combined US social security
+ UK state pension income.

It is exactly because of this 50% cap that it's wise for most people in the US
to make UK voluntary contributions if they are eligible. See also this
information


I'm a Kiwi. Can I get my UK state pension in New Zealand?


Yes. Under the New Zealand Social Security Act 2018, the Ministry of Social
Development ('MSD') must deduct the amount of any UK state pension a person
receives from their New Zealand Superannuation ('Super'). On 9 November 2020,
the requirement to deduct the voluntary component of a UK State Pension was also
excluded.

This change was made to reflect a move toward individual entitlement to Super
which meant that people would receive Super through their own entitlement, based
on their own situation.

Pensions arising from voluntary contributions to UK State pensions have not been
direct deducted in New Zealand since 2005.
‍
If you pay voluntary contributions to the UK State Pension, you simply ask the
MSD to stop deducting the amount of pension they receive because of those
contributions. You will need to send MSD a standard letter from HMRC that shows
the amount of UK state pension that results from the voluntary contributions you
have made.
‍
Those getting an overseas pension made up of voluntary portion made from
contributions is NOT deducted (which is what XtraPension's service helps you
with) – Watch our explainer video and see more from the NZ Govt here


How can I find a UK postcode?


Use a combination of Google Maps and Postcode Finder


Can I use my UK National Insurance payments to top up my Irish or French or
German or Italian or Spanish pension?


UK National Insurance payments cannot be directly used to top up an European
pension. Contributions made in one country do not automatically transfer or
contribute to the pension entitlement in the other country. Each pension system
operates independently.

However UK National Insurance contributions can be taken into account in order
to qualify for European contributory state pensions which is the reverse of the
3 year rule


Can I get my National Insurance number over the telephone?


No as you can not prove your identity that way.


How long does it take to get a reply from HMRC after I use the XtraPension
service?


Up to 8 months currently within Europe and up to 12 months for people outside
Europe.


Am I eligible if I worked between 2 and 3 years in the UK?


Maybe. You may have paid enough National Insurance for that partial 3rd year of
UK work for it to qualify as your full 3rd full year, thereby making you
eligible for this opportunity. If that’s you - you have 2 choices:
‍
Check your National Insurance record or just apply anyway using our XtraPension
service. If HMRC reject your application, it will not have cost you a penny due
to our 100% Money-Back Guarantee


What is your ‘Money-Back Guarantee’?


Our service is 100% FREE if you get a ‘rejection’ letter from HMRC within 2
years of buying any of our services. A ‘rejection’ means you are not eligible to
pay HMRC for missing National Insurance years to meet their 10 year minimum -
required to get any UK state pension.
‍
This guarantee does not apply if you choose NOT to pay HMRC for whatever reason
- even though you got a ‘positive’ letter from HMRC or you were declined on our
Am I Eligible? tool but used our service anyway.


Why does the XtraPension service cost less outside Europe?


We’re obliged to charge 23% Value Added Tax (‘VAT’) on our services to people
who live in Europe which we then pass on to the Irish government as we’re based
in Ireland.


What happens if I was “Contracted Out” while working in UK public sector / a
large company?


If you were employed before April 2016, you may have been contracted out at some
point. Almost all public sector workers were contracted out - for example, NHS
workers, council workers and teachers.

If this is you, check your State Pension forecast and your record – this is
critical. If you were contracted out, your forecast will include a
‘Contracted-Out Pension Equivalent’ estimate.

Best guidance then is to apply via any XtraPension service to pay voluntary
National Insurance for the years you have not paid and then await HMRC’s
assessment which will clarify the situation.


What should I do if I worked on ‘Deadman’ or ‘Dead Man’ jobs in Construction?


Any suspected abuse of your National Insurance number (NINO) should be reported
to HMRC immediately.

If your old employer did abuse your NINO after you left the UK, this could be
very beneficial to you now many years later. Once you retrieve your old National
Insurance number, we recommend that you check your National Insurance record to
see how many years of contributions your NINO shows.
Then use any XtraPension UK State Pension Abroad service to apply to pay for any
missing gap years in your NINO’s record.


Is XtraPension regulated or authorised to give financial advice?


No.


Am I eligible for the UK State Pension opportunity if I live in a European
country including Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Malta, Romania,
Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Latvia, Netherlands, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Estonia,
Hungary, Liechtenstein, Norway, Slovenia, Croatia, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania,
Poland, Spain, Cyprus, France, Ireland, Luxembourg, Portugal, Sweden,
Switzerland?


Probably yes. Check if you are eligible for a UK State Pension abroad here


What should I provide if I've had multiple employers since leaving the UK?


Supply a date-ordered list of your overseas and UK employers, employment start
and end dates, periods of leave, and any UK benefits claimed as per our UK State
Pension Abroad Worksheet here


How can I retrieve my National Insurance number?


Many people forget their old UK National Insurance number but you must know it
in order to apply for the UK State Pension opportunity. You are NOT able to get
this number over the phone. You can get your old number fast ONLINE by following
several steps. Watch our video on how to do it online.
‍
Alternatively, print and post HMRC form CA5403. Watch our video on how to do
this by post. Note that it can take a few weeks to get your National Insurance
number by post within Europe and longer if you’re outside Europe.


What information do I need to provide for my employment after I left the UK?


HMRC needs to see your all your employment details including employer names &
addresses as well as start and end dates for all jobs you’ve had since you left
the UK.

Ideally, there should be no time gap between when you left the UK and started
work abroad but if there was a gap of a few months or years, there’s nothing you
can really do about that, but you will probably be charged the expensive Class 3
contributions rate by HMRC for those missing years when you were not working.

Please ensure the start and end dates you provide for non-UK work matches what
your Social Insurance/Security payments statement says to avoid any potential
problems. If you were self-employed after leaving the UK, your Social Insurance
payments statement should be sufficient proof for HMRC.


How long does this application process take?


Once we submit your application on your behalf which takes us just a few days
from getting your signed documents, how long it takes HMRC to process it varies
greatly.

It typically takes approximately 8 months for people in Europe to get their
assessment letter and up to 12 months for people outside Europe to get their
assessment letter.


How long does it take HMRC to register my payment?


Typically at least 8 weeks.


How long does it take for my National Insurance record to be updated after I
have paid voluntary contributions?


Typically at least 12 months from when your payment was received. Watch our
video explainer here on checking your National Insurance record


What are the different classes of National Insurance contributions?


There are 6 classes: Class 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 3, and 4, each related to employment
status and benefits.



DID YOU WORK FOR 1+ YEARS IN THE UK?

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XtraPension is a specialist execution-only service that helps people globally
apply for and maximise their UK state pension entitlements. We do not offer
pension or financial advice nor do we handle client money intended for HMRC. If
in doubt, please contact a financial advisor.
‍
Your application to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions will be
submitted by an approved and official HMRC Agent. XtraPension Ltd is an Irish
company (749802)

This website uses rounded Euro approximations to explain the overall HMRC
process, estimated costs and benefits in a simple jargon-free way.

Where we say €200 for a cheap (Class 2) year or €1,000 for expensive (Class 3)
years, the actual figures are STG £179 and STG £907 per year respectively.

Where we say a full UK state pension is €14,000, the actual figure is STG
£11,502 (Effective April 2024).
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