Increase Your State Pension Amount
4 Increase The Amount Of State Pension You’ll Get
There are ways you can increase your basic State Pension if you:
- aren’t eligible for the full amount (£156.20 per week)
- want to receive more than the full amount
Voluntary National Insurance contributions
You need 30 years of National Insurance contributions to be eligible for the full basic State Pension.
If you have gaps in your insurance record, you may be able to make voluntary contributions to increase your pension.
Delay (defer) your State Pension
Deferring your State Pension could increase your payments when you decide to claim. The basic State Pension increases by 1% for every 5 weeks you defer.
The extra amount is paid with your regular State Pension and can be claimed on top of the full basic State Pension amount.
Other ways you could increase your pension
If you’re married or in a civil partnership you may be eligible to increase your basic State Pension to £85.00 per week. Check if you qualify.
You might also qualify for the Additional State Pension or, if you’re on a low income, Pension Credit.
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