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https://pensionslatest.blog.gov.uk/2016/04/04/state-pension-statements/

State Pension statements

In previous blogs I have outlined the changes to the State Pension from 6 April 2016. There are a couple of ways you can check how these changes will affect your own position.

You can now check your State Pension online. This new service, which is currently being tested, is available to everyone of working age.

If you are aged 50 or over you can also get a State Pension statement by post. Requesting a statement is easy and I encourage everyone who is eligible to get one – it’s a valuable tool for helping you plan a secure retirement.

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What is a State Pension statement and what does it show?

A State Pension statement is a letter from DWP that, for people aged 50 and over, gives a personalised estimate of your new State Pension. It is based on your National Insurance (NI) contribution record on the DWP system when the statement is produced.

Your statement will also tell you the date at which you will reach your State Pension age, which is the earliest you can get your State Pension.

It will confirm your personal details, date of birth and NI number. Make sure to check these details and inform DWP if any of this information is incorrect.

How is my State Pension estimate calculated?

Your State Pension estimate will be worked out using the NI contributions and credits that are on your NI record when your statement is produced.

Your statement will tell you the number of qualifying years you currently have on your NI record. Qualifying years are tax years that count towards your State Pension.

If your current State Pension estimate is less than the full amount of new State Pension (£155.65 in 2016/17), you may be able to increase this amount by adding qualifying years. To find out more, visit www.gov.uk/new-state-pension/how-its-calculated.

What if I have been contracted-out of the earnings-related State Pension?

If you have been contracted-out of the additional State Pension at some time, your State Pension statement estimate will take this into account and will also provide your estimated Contracted Out Pension Equivalent (COPE) amount. You can find out more about what contracting-out means for the new State Pension in our online guidance.

How do I get a State Pension statement?

You won’t get a State Pension statement sent to you automatically. If you’re aged 50 or over, you will have to apply to get one sent to you but anyone can try our online service.

You can find out how to request a statement at www.gov.uk/check-state-pension. You will normally receive your statement in around 10 days.

The leaflet you will get with your statement provides much more information and examples about the new State Pension.

I’ve heard I can now check my State Pension online

Yes, anyone of working age can now get information on their State Pension by using the new online Check your State Pension service.

This is currently being tested by the Government and is available to those who live in the UK. The online service is a quick and simple way to access information about your State Pension in only a few minutes. In order to use the online service you will need to confirm your identity using an identity verification service.

The Check your State Pension service will give you a forecast of the new State Pension you may get at State Pension age. It will also tell you if there are any gaps in your NI record, and whether you can pay voluntary NI contributions to fill these gaps.

To test this online service, visit www.tax.service.gov.uk/checkmystatepension.

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