When it comes to retirement, many people assume their State Pension will simply fall into place. In reality, the amount you receive can vary quite a bit. It is not something we can check for you as your accountant, either.
The good news is that it is quick and easy to check your State Pension forecast online, and it could make a real difference to your future income.
Why it is worth checking your State Pension
1. It is not a fixed amount
The full new State Pension is currently just over £241 per week for 2026/27, and this usually increases each year. Not everyone qualifies for the full amount.
In most cases, you need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions to receive the full State Pension.
2. You may have gaps in your National Insurance record
Many people have missing years without realising it. This can happen if you have:
- Been self-employed with low profits
- Taken time out to raise a family
- Worked abroad
- Had periods of low earnings
Even a few missing years can reduce your State Pension.
3. You may be able to increase your State Pension
If you have gaps, you can often pay voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill them.
In many cases, this offers very good value. Paying a relatively small amount now could increase your pension for the rest of your life.
4. It helps with retirement planning
Checking your State Pension forecast helps you:
- Plan your retirement more confidently
- Understand how much you need from private pensions or savings
- Avoid unexpected shortfalls later on
Why we cannot check your State Pension for you
Unlike tax returns or accounts, your State Pension forecast is not something accountants can access on your behalf.
It sits within your personal Government Gateway account and requires identity verification. This means only you can log in and view it.
How to check your State Pension forecast online
You can check your State Pension forecast here:
https://www.gov.uk/check-state-pension
You will need to log in or set up a Government Gateway account.
To do this, you will need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Some form of ID such as a passport and driving licence.
You can set up a Government Gateway using this link – https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services
The whole process usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes.
What your State Pension forecast will show
Once logged in, you will be able to see:
- Your estimated weekly State Pension
- Your State Pension age
- Your National Insurance record
- Any gaps in your record and how to fill them
Who should check their State Pension forecast
It is especially important to check if you:
- Are over 40
- Have been self-employed
- Have taken career breaks
- Have worked abroad
Need help understanding your State Pension forecast?
If you have checked your forecast and are not sure what it means, feel free to send it over.
We are very happy to help you understand:
- Whether you are on track
- If topping up contributions is worthwhile
- How this fits into your overall financial plans
A simple check that can make a big difference
Checking your State Pension forecast is one of the easiest financial steps you can take, and it can have a meaningful impact on your future income.
If you have not checked yours yet, it is well worth taking a few minutes to do it today.