Numi Kent
Thousands of women across the UK in their 60s and 70s are discovering they might be due significant backdated payments—up to £7,859—from the State Pension.
This is due to a recognised error with Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) credits between 1978 and 2010. Government agencies are now correcting these mistakes, sending payments to many who’ve been underpaid for decades.
What Exactly Is the HRP Issue?
Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) was introduced between 1978 and 2010 to protect pension entitlements for those—mainly women—who took time off work to care for children or family.
But, egregious recording errors before 2000, particularly where National Insurance (NI) numbers were omitted from Child Benefit claims, meant many were mistakenly denied HRP credits.
That led to missing qualifying years and reduced pensions—which the government is now rectifying.
How Many Are Affected & How Much They’ll Receive
| Metric | Number/Amount |
|---|---|
| UK individuals affected by HRP underpayments | ~370,000 received letters |
| Issued underpayment cases (to Sept 2024) | 5,344 cases |
| Total arrears paid for HRP cases | ~£42 million |
| Average back-payment per person | £7,859 |
| Estimated total underpaid across all pensioners | Over £800 million, potentially rising past £1 billion |
| Projected completion of corrections | By March 2027 |
Who Is Affected?
- Women born between 1948–1960, now in their 60s and 70s, who took career breaks 1978–2010.
- Those who claimed Child Benefit but didn’t include their NI number—especially before May 2000.
- Women already receiving the pension or nearing State Pension Age, and may not have received full qualifying years .
Why Could You Receive Up to £7,859?
- Average HRP arrears calculated by DWP: £7,859 per eligible case .
- Actual amounts vary based on number of missing years, interest, and pension rate differences.
- Examples like Susan (born 1955) illustrate how 15 missing years of credits can result in thousands in lump sums plus lasting pension boosts.
How to Check & Claim
- Check GOV.UK eligibility tool for HRP correction.
- Log in to NI record to spot gaps from 1978–2010.
- If missing, complete and submit form CF411 (online or paper).
- After correction, DWP recalculates and pays lump sum plus adjusted pension.
- Alternative help: Citizens Advice, NI helpline 0300 200 3500.
Deadlines: corrections to complete by March 2027, with action window open until March 2027.
Timeline: When Will You Be Paid?
- HMRC and DWP targeted completion by March 2027
- Those already processed usually receive payments within a few months.
- Affected individuals are being contacted—180,000+ letters already sent
Why This Matters
- Over £800 million identified, with amounts potentially top £1 billion .
- It’s not just financial—this is about rectifying unfair treatment of women’s unpaid caregiving.
- The issue underscores the importance of accurate NI records and highlights a major administrative failure.
If you’re a woman in your 60s or 70s in the UK, it’s vital to check your State Pension record now. Even without a letter, missing HRP credits could entitle you to up to £7,859 in back payments and a permanent increase in future pension.
With the government actively correcting past mistakes, you may gain both financially and in peace of mind. Take action—this overdue recognition and compensation for your unpaid care work matters.
FAQs
Who qualifies for up to £7,859 in back‑pay?
Women in their 60s–70s who missed HRP credits due to NI-related errors between 1978 and 2010.
How do I know if I’m owed money?
Use the GOV.UK eligibility tool or check NI record online; missing years = potential correction and back‑pay.
When will I receive the payment?
Corrections will roll out by March 2027, with processed payments arriving a few months after eligibility confirmation.