6 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE STATE PENSION

1 The state pension age is increasing incrementally to 68 so it’s important to check at what age you can claim it.

■ Call 0800 731 0175 or visit www.gov.uk/state-pension-age

2 To claim the maximum state pension of £164.35 per week (£8,546.20 a year) you need to have been paying National Insurance contributions for at least 35 years.

■ To see if you’ve made enough contributions, obtain a statement by calling 0800 731 0175 or visit www.gov.uk/check-state-pension

3 If you’re low on contributions, you can fill in the gaps by making topup contributions. Contact the Future Pension Centre to learn how.

■ Call 0800 731 0175 or visit www2.dwp.gov.uk/tps-directgov/ en/contact-tps/fpc.asp

4 Check with your pension provider if you ever ‘contracted out’ of the State Pension, meaning you paid lower NI contributions, as this will affect your pay-out.

5 You can defer the state pension which may result in you getting a higher weekly payment later or a lump sum, a good idea if you have sufficient savings elsewhere.

■ To find out more, call 0800 731 0469 or visit www.gov.uk/deferringstate-pension/what-you-get

6 You won’t get your state pension automatically. Apply for it when you get a letter no later than two months before reaching eligible age.