The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), in collaboration with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), is currently correcting historic State Pension underpayments, with a focus on women in their 60s and 70s.
As part of the Legal Entitlements and Administrative Practice (LEAP) exercise, over 370,000 letters have already been sent urging individuals to check their National Insurance (NI) records for errors related to Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP).
These errors have resulted in thousands of women missing out on thousands of pounds, with the average back payment being £8,377. The DWP has pledged to resolve all affected cases by the end of 2025.
What Is the DWP State Pension Correction About?
The LEAP correction exercise was launched after it was discovered that HRP periods—designed to protect carers’ pension entitlements—were not accurately reflected in many people’s NI records.
These missing HRP periods disproportionately affected women who raised children or cared for dependents between 1978 and 2010.
Why HRP Matters:
HRP was intended to safeguard State Pension rights for those who couldn’t work due to parenting or caregiving responsibilities. HRP was replaced in 2010 with NI credits, but missing data from older records is now causing pension shortfalls.
Who Is Affected?
The DWP and HMRC’s review has identified a broad pool of affected individuals, mainly women born before 1959 who are now in their 60s and 70s.
Key Figures So Far:
| Category | Figures |
|---|---|
| Letters Sent | 370,000+ |
| Total Underpayments Identified | 12,379 cases |
| Total Amount Repaid | £104 million |
| Average Back Payment | £8,377 |
| Over State Pension Age Applicants | 44,296 |
| Under State Pension Age Applicants | 8,639 |
How to Check If You’re Eligible
Women who believe they may have been affected can now use an online self-check HRP tool provided on GOV.UK. The tool walks users through checking gaps in their NI record and guides them on applying for corrections.
Conditions for HRP Eligibility (1978–2010):
- You claimed Child Benefit for a child under 16
- Your partner claimed Child Benefit but you were the carer
- You received Income Support while caring for someone disabled
- You were a foster carer or kinship carer
- You cared for someone receiving:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Constant Attendance Allowance
Note: Carers who received Carer’s Allowance automatically received NI credits and don’t need to apply.
Special Cases: Married Women and Widows
Some married women and widows may not qualify for HRP if they:
- Opted for reduced rate Class 1 contributions (“small stamp”)
- Chose not to pay Class 2 contributions when self-employed
However, HRP can be transferred from a partner in certain conditions, if:
- You lived together while raising a child
- Your partner doesn’t need those qualifying years
- You reached State Pension age before April 6, 2008
Important Tips Before Using the HRP Online Tool
- Know your NI record status
- If unsure, select “Do not know” to get help
- Provide details for each tax year between 1978 and 2010
- You can still apply after reaching State Pension age, although increases may not be backdated in full
DWP’s Plan for Corrections
The DWP says its goal is to finalize corrections by the end of 2025. While not every applicant will receive a payment (some may already be receiving the correct amount), thousands will benefit from arrears and revised future payments.
If you’re a woman in your 60s or 70s, especially if you spent years caring for children or disabled individuals, you could be owed up to £8,377 or more in State Pension back pay.
With over £104 million already repaid, now is the time to check your National Insurance record using the DWP’s self-check tool. Don’t miss the chance to reclaim what you’ve rightfully earned.
FAQs
Who is most likely to be owed State Pension back pay?
Women in their 60s and 70s who had gaps in their National Insurance record due to caregiving or parenting responsibilities between 1978 and 2010.
How much can I receive from the DWP correction?
The average back payment is currently £8,377, but it can vary depending on your National Insurance history and caregiving periods.
How do I apply or check my eligibility?
Visit GOV.UK and use the HRP self-check tool. It helps you determine if you have missing HRP years and guides you on how to apply.