Many women in their 60s and 70s across the UK could be owed back payments from the State Pension system. Why? Because of missing National Insurance credits linked to Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP). These errors, caused by incomplete child benefit claims before 2000, have left thousands underpaid—often by thousands of pounds. The government is now correcting this mistake, and the average back payment is around £8,000 per person.
Background
Home Responsibilities Protection was a system created to protect pension rights for parents (mostly mothers) who stayed at home to raise children. It gave National Insurance credits to fill in the gaps in work history. But before 2000, many child benefit forms didn’t require a National Insurance number, meaning HRP credits weren’t always linked to the right record.
This mistake left many people short on qualifying years for a full State Pension—leading to underpayments that stretched over years, even decades.
Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who is Affected? | Women in their 60s and 70s, especially those who claimed child benefit before 2000 |
| Average Back Payment | Around £8,000 per person |
| Reason for Error | HRP credits not properly recorded due to missing NI numbers |
| Fixing the Problem | DWP and HMRC reviewing records and issuing payments |
| Where to Check | GOV.UK or contact the Pension Service |
Why It Matters
For many pensioners, the State Pension is their main income in retirement. Missing out on HRP credits could mean hundreds or even thousands less per year. Over time, this adds up—and for some women, it could be the difference between struggling and staying financially stable.
A corrected pension record could mean:
- Higher monthly pension payments going forward
- A lump sum for missed years (some received as much as £17,000)
Real Story
Mrs. Atkinson, a retired teacher from Cornwall, thought her pension seemed low. After checking her National Insurance record, she found several missing HRP years. She contacted the Pension Service, applied for a correction, and eventually received a lump sum of nearly £17,000. Now her weekly pension is higher, and her financial worries are eased.
How to Check
You’ll need:
- National Insurance number
- Any child benefit claim details
- Employment records (if available)
Check Your National Insurance Record
Go to the UK Government website and review your National Insurance history. Look for missing years that overlap with when you claimed child benefit.
Use the Eligibility Checker
Visit GOV.UK and use the HRP eligibility tool. This will help you quickly see if your record needs updating.
Contact the Pension Service
If something looks wrong or you’re unsure, call or write to the Pension Service. Ask them to review your HRP history.
Keep Documentation
Save all emails, letters, or forms submitted. This helps in case there’s a delay or further queries.
Government Action
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) are now working together to fix these errors. They are:
- Reviewing old records
- Sending letters to potentially affected individuals
- Offering support in making claims
If you receive one of these letters, respond promptly and follow the instructions provided.
Financial Advisor Tips
Financial advisors say this issue is more common than people think. Many women didn’t realise they were short on pension contributions because of how the system used to work. Advisors suggest:
- Reviewing pension statements carefully
- Talking to clients about HRP-related gaps
- Helping them navigate the claim process
One advisor said, “It’s like finding money you didn’t know was yours. It’s worth the time to look.”
Planning Ahead
Fixing your HRP record doesn’t just help now—it can improve your retirement plan in the long run. Use this opportunity to:
- Reassess your budget
- Consider other benefits you might be missing
- Speak with a financial planner
Even if you’re not affected, check for loved ones who might be—especially older women who were primary caregivers during their children’s early years.
If you or someone you know is a woman in her 60s or 70s, claimed child benefit before 2000, and now receives less than the full State Pension, it’s worth looking into. You could be due a back payment worth thousands of pounds—and get a permanent increase to your pension going forward.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £8,000 back payment?
Women in their 60s or 70s with missing HRP credits.
What caused the State Pension underpayments?
Missing National Insurance numbers on child benefit claims.
How do I check my National Insurance record?
Visit GOV.UK and access your record using your NI number.
Can I still claim if I haven’t been contacted?
Yes, contact the Pension Service directly to review your record.
What documents do I need to apply?
NI number, child benefit info, and past employment records.
