Your National Insurance record quietly decides how much State Pension you will get, yet most people never look at it until retirement is near. Checking it takes minutes and can be one of the most valuable things you do for your future. This guide explains how to check your National Insurance record in 2026/27 and what to do with what you find.
Why check your record?
Your record shows how many qualifying years of National Insurance you have built up, which determines your State Pension. Because you need around 35 years for the full new State Pension, spotting gaps early gives you time to fix them, often far more cheaply than leaving it late. It is also a good way to make sure your contributions have been recorded correctly.
How to check it online
The easiest way is through your Personal Tax Account on the HMRC website or the HMRC app. There you can view your National Insurance record year by year, see which years are full and which have gaps, and view your State Pension forecast, which estimates what you are on track to receive. You will need to sign in with your Government Gateway details or verify your identity.
What to look for
Check whether each year shows as a full qualifying year. Look for any gaps, which appear as years where you did not contribute enough. Compare your forecast with the full State Pension amount to see whether you are on track. If you spot a year that should be full but is not, for example one where you were employed, it is worth investigating, as it may be a recording error.
What to do about gaps
If you find gaps, you have options. Some can be filled with National Insurance credits, for example if you were claiming certain benefits or caring for children or a relative and did not get the credits automatically. Others can be filled by paying voluntary contributions. The HMRC tools now show whether paying for a particular year would actually increase your pension, which avoids wasting money.
When to act
The sooner you check, the more choices you have, because there are time limits on filling gaps. It is sensible to review your record every few years, and certainly well before you reach State Pension age, so you have time to top up if it makes sense.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check my National Insurance record?
Through your Personal Tax Account or the HMRC app, where you can see your record year by year, spot gaps, and view your State Pension forecast.
What is a qualifying year?
A tax year in which you paid or were credited with enough National Insurance to count towards your State Pension. You generally need around 35 for the full amount.
What if a year is missing that should be full?
Investigate it, as it may be a recording error or a year where you were entitled to credits. You can also fill genuine gaps with voluntary contributions.
When should I check my record?
Every few years, and well before State Pension age, so you have time to fill any gaps while it is still possible and worthwhile.