State pensioners across the UK are being urged to review their pension records carefully, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) warns that some may be owed substantial back payments—potentially thousands of pounds. This comes after a report by the charity Independent Age highlighted widespread historical underpayments, particularly for those who may have had their state pensions miscalculated or underpaid.
Who Could Be Affected by Historical State Pension Underpayments?
Independent Age’s findings suggest that many pensioners—especially women who had reduced National Insurance (NI) contributions due to various life circumstances—might be victims of underpaid state pensions.
While most individuals who qualify for the basic state pension or pension top-ups have their entitlements automatically calculated, some pensioners have found discrepancies in their payments. Women, in particular, who were subject to reduced National Insurance rates due to child-rearing or caring responsibilities, may have been especially affected.
The charity recommends that if you suspect your state pension has been miscalculated or underpaid, you should immediately contact the Pension Service to request a reassessment of your pension. This advice applies whether you’re actively receiving your state pension or have chosen to delay your claim.
Furthermore, you can seek assistance by contacting a helpline advisor who can help guide you through the process.
What is Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP)?
The root cause of many of these underpayments is the absence of Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) in some people’s National Insurance records. HRP was a system designed to help individuals receive National Insurance credits when they were out of paid work, such as when caring for children or other dependents.
Many pensioners—especially women—have found that missing HRP records have contributed to their underpayments. HMRC is actively working to correct these issues and reach out to affected individuals. Between January 8, 2024, and March 31, 2025, it’s estimated that 12,379 cases of underpayments due to missing HRP records will be rectified. Around £104 million in arrears has already been paid out, with each individual receiving an average back payment of £8,377.
Who May Be Affected by Missing HRP?
HRP was available to those who were caring for dependents or not in paid work between 1978 and 2010. If your National Insurance record is missing HRP for this period, you may be eligible for back payments.
It’s important to note that if you applied for HRP after May 2000 and included your National Insurance number, you won’t be affected by this issue. However, if you’re uncertain whether you’re impacted, you can apply for missing HRP credits for the relevant years via the official gov.uk website.
You may still be eligible for HRP if, during the tax years between 1978 and 2010, you met any of the following conditions:
- You were claiming Child Benefit for a child under 16.
- You were caring for a child with your partner, who claimed Child Benefit instead of you.
- You were receiving Income Support due to caring for a sick or disabled person.
- You were caring for a sick or disabled person who was claiming certain benefits.
- You were a foster carer or kinship carer (for children of family or friends) in Scotland between 2003 and 2010.
If you believe that you were underpaid due to these miscalculations or missing HRP records, it is critical that you contact the Pension Service without delay to resolve the issue.
Potential Back Payments Worth Thousands
As HMRC continues its efforts to identify those affected by underpayments, many pensioners could be entitled to substantial back payments, with some individuals receiving sums upwards of £8,300. With £104 million already paid out in arrears, it’s vital to check your National Insurance records and apply for any missing payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is affected by state pension underpayments?
State pensioners, particularly women who were subject to reduced National Insurance rates due to child-rearing or other caring responsibilities, may have experienced underpayments. If you think this applies to you, contact the Pension Service for a recalculation of your state pension.
What is Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP)?
HRP was a scheme that granted National Insurance credits to individuals who weren’t in paid work, such as those caring for children or other dependents. Missing HRP records have led to underpayment for some pensioners.
How can I check if I am owed back payments?
If you suspect you’ve been underpaid, contact the Pension Service to request a recalculation of your state pension. You can also apply for missing HRP credits on the gov.uk website.
How much money might state pensioners be owed?
State pensioners who are affected by underpayments could be owed significant sums. The average back payment is £8,377, with £104 million already distributed to those affected.
How can I apply for missing HRP credits?
If you were eligible for HRP between 1978 and 2010, and your National Insurance record is missing these credits, you can apply through the gov.uk website