Fill gaps in your National Insurance record – 5 April deadline each year

You can usually pay voluntary National Insurance contributions for the past 6 years only, and the deadline is 5 April each year. On 5 April 2027, the chance to fill gaps for the 2020 to 2021 tax year ends.

Deadline

Every year by 5 April

Last checked

Checked against the official source: 20 October 2026

What if you miss the deadline? After 5 April, you can no longer pay for the oldest year in the 6-year window. A gap you cannot fill may reduce your State Pension.

Gaps in your National Insurance record, for example years when you were not working or claiming benefits, can reduce your State Pension. You might be able to pay voluntary contributions to fill them. Check first whether paying would increase your pension.

How to do it

1. Check your State Pension forecast and National Insurance record on GOV.UK.
2. Find any years with gaps and check if paying would increase your State Pension.
3. Use the GOV.UK checker to see if you can pay voluntary National Insurance contributions.
4. Pay before 5 April for the oldest year you still want to fill.

Common questions

How far back can I pay voluntary National Insurance?

You can usually only pay voluntary contributions for the past 6 years. The deadline is 5 April each year.

What is the deadline for the 2025 to 2026 tax year?

GOV.UK says you have until 5 April 2032 to make up gaps for the tax year 2025 to 2026.

Is it always worth paying voluntary contributions?

Not always. Check your forecast first to see if paying would increase your State Pension.

Official source: gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

This information is not legal or tax advice.