State Pension Forecast Calculator UK
Estimate your new State Pension based on your National Insurance qualifying years. See your projected weekly, monthly and annual amount and how close you are to the full pension.
Calculator
What this means
The new State Pension is based on your National Insurance record. You usually need 35 qualifying years for the full amount and at least 10 to get anything. Each qualifying year is worth roughly 1/35th of the full pension.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your number of qualifying National Insurance years.
- See your estimated State Pension based on those years.
- Check whether topping up could increase it.
Worked example
You have 30 qualifying years out of the 35 needed.
- The full new State Pension needs about 35 qualifying years.
- 30 ÷ 35 of the full £241.30 a week ≈ £206.83 a week.
You'd get roughly £206.83 a week, rising if you add more qualifying years.
Who this is for
- Anyone planning for retirement.
- People with gaps in their NI record.
- Those considering voluntary NI contributions.
How the new State Pension works
The full new State Pension for 2026/27 is around £241.30 a week. You generally need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance for the full amount, and at least 10 years to get anything.
Gaps from time abroad, low earnings or caring can reduce it. You can often fill gaps with voluntary Class 3 contributions — check your forecast on GOV.UK before paying.
Frequently asked questions
You usually need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions or credits for the full new State Pension, and at least 10 qualifying years to receive any State Pension at all.
If you have gaps in your record you may be able to pay voluntary Class 3 National Insurance to fill them. Check your forecast on GOV.UK first, as it isn't always worth it.
This calculator uses an estimated full new State Pension under the triple lock. The exact figure is confirmed each year — check GOV.UK for the official amount and your personal forecast.
Usually 35 qualifying years of National Insurance for the full new State Pension, and a minimum of 10 years to receive any at all.
Often it's good value, but not always. Check your State Pension forecast on GOV.UK first, as some years won't increase your pension. Consider guidance from MoneyHelper.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for guidance only. It is not financial, legal or tax advice. Always check official sources or speak to a qualified professional before making decisions. For an official forecast, check your record at gov.uk/check-state-pension.
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