THOUSANDS of households are being urged to check their state pension entitlement ahead of a rapidly approaching deadline.

There are less than six months left for people to fill any gaps in their National Insurance (NI) records, going back as far as 2006, to maximise their state pension.

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More than 10,000 payments worth £12.5 million have already been made through the new digital service to boost state pensions since it launched in April, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revealed.

People have until April 5 2025 to maximise their state pension by making voluntary contributions to fill any gaps in their NI record between April 6 2006 and April 5 2018.

Usually people can only pay voluntary contributions for the past six tax years, and after the April 5 deadline next year the normal six-tax year time limit will apply.

In 2023, the previous government extended the deadline to pay voluntary NI contributions to April 5 2025 for those affected by new state pension transitional arrangements, covering the tax years running from April 6 2006 to April 5 2018.

The extended deadline has allowed people more time to consider what is right for them and make their contributions.

Men born after April 6 1951 and women born after April 6 1953 are eligible to make voluntary NI contributions to boost their new state pension.

Some people may be entitled to NI credits rather than needing to pay contributions, so they will need to check and consider what is right for them.

HMRC said further analysis of the use of the online service shows the majority (51%) of customers topped up one year of their NI record, with the average online payment being £1,193.

Pensions minister Emma Reynolds said: “We want pensioners of today and tomorrow to enjoy the dignity and support they deserve in retirement.

“That’s why I urge everyone to check if they could benefit by filling gaps before the deadline passes. Using our online tool means only a few clicks could make a huge difference to your future.”

Alice Haine, personal finance analyst at Bestinvest, said: “Plugging gaps can be quite an expensive process, so it is important to assess whether you actually need to buy back any missing years.

“This will depend on how many more years you plan to work, and whether you are eligible for NI tax credits, which fill the gaps, such as those who have been sick, were unemployed or took time out to raise a family or care for elderly relations.”

How can I access the tool?

You can access it through the ‘Check your State Pension forecast’ page on Gov.uk.

It’s also available through the HMRC app, which you can download free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

You’ll need to log in using your Personal Tax Account login details. If you don’t already have an online HMRC account, you can register at Gov.uk.

It shows you how much your state pension could increase by and what NI years you’ll need to buy to achieve this.

You’ll then be able to pay for these missing years securely online, without having to call up separately.

You need to pay for these in full – you can’t pay in instalments.

You can’t use the online service if you’re already getting your state pension or if you’re looking to fill gaps from when you were self-employed or working abroad.

People can find out more about making voluntary contributions and check their state pension forecast on the government website.

How to top up National Insurance contributions and how much you can get

In some cases, buying back missing years can be really valuable.

But, earning back the years isn’t free so your voluntary contributions do come at a price.

If you’re filling gaps between 2006/07 to 2015/16 you’ll be paying the 2022/23 rates for contributions.

It works out to be worth £15.85 a week which means it costs £824.20 to buy one year of contributions.

As the state pension was £185.15 per week in 2022/23, this boost would add £5.29 per week or around £275 per year. 

Although you’d have to pay £8,242 (10 lots of £824.20), the annual state pension boost would be around £2,750.

Someone who was retired for 20 years would get back around £55,000 in total (before tax).

Anyone who tops up their record after April 2025 will pay those rates.

If you’re currently unable to use the new online tool, or you’d prefer to talk to someone on the phone, you can still call up to find out more information about your NI record and to pay for missing years.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

PUNTERS cannot wait to get their hands on this iconic 90s beer that is set to return – after a 30 year wait.

A blast from the past and one of the nation’s most beloved drinks during the 1950s will be “coming very soon to your favourite pubs” according to the Burton-on Trent brewery.

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Announcing the come back on Instagram, Allsopp’s Beer revealed that Double Diamond has been set to make a return.

The caption of the September 25 post read: “It’s back, and it still works wonders!

“After months of research and trialling recipes to make it perfect, we’ve relaunched Double Diamond.

“Revived as a 3.8% pale ale that drinks like a lager, it’s a delicious, easy-going, sessionable draught beer, coming very soon to your favourite pubs.”

First made in 1876, the new and improved recipe seems to be a hit with punters.

Many have already taken to the comments section to express their joy at the relaunch.

One user commented: “Working wonders!”

Another said: “We tried and can say it’s stunning!! Safe to say we have it in the cellar waiting to come back on!!”

Someone else wrote: “The first beer I had the privilege of tasting in the company of my beloved Grandad, watching match of the day not quite the same these days.”

A fourth put: “Something to look out for.”

Another commented: “Where? Can’t wait to try it out.”

The brewery has revealed Double Diamond will not be their only offering with other old beers to make an appearance.

Drinkers could opt for a pint of Hofmeister, Kestrel Pilsner or Watneys Party Seven keg, all from the same brand.

Those hoping to find other drinks by the brewery could also hop to Allsopp’s Best Bitter.

Marketed at being “perfect for any occasion” the beer has notes of forest fruit, marmalade and biscuit.

THOUSANDS of low-income families will get the chance to benefit from council funding worth up to £180.

Cash-strapped households could be eligible for the added support after the cost of living crisis – there’s just one thing they’ll need to know.

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Ealing council has been offered £2.6 million to help those in financial need until March.

It is expected that the funding will be the last phase from the government so those strapped for cash will want to check if they’re eligible.

If you’re living in the area and are hoping to nab some extra money to pay for essentials, you don’t need even need to apply.

However, those eligible will need to get their skates on as the clock is ticking for recipients to redeem the vouchers.

Those deemed qualified to receive the payment will be sent a 16 digit code with instructions via email or letter.

The personalised link will need to be claimed via the Blackhawk website which is a trusted partner of the local council.

All of the payments have been offered as vouchers with those eligible for free school meals receiving ones to spend at supermarkets.

Based on low income, those claiming benefit from the scheme will gain either £15 or £30 per child depending on when they were means tested.

If you’re children are not old enough to claim free school meals then there’s no need to fret as you could still be eligible.

Those with kids under five, receiving housing benefit or council tax reduction could find a voucher in their inbox.

Care leavers have also been placed on the list of those to be supported, with Ealing locals receiving £100 per care leaver.

The Household Support Fund has been provided by the Department for Work and Pensions to help those who qualify to be able to afford food and essential items.

Local authorities across the country have been allocated funding from the £421 million pot.

The Sun recently shared a guide and interactive map to help those unsure figure out what they may be able to claim.

Funding applications and eligibility varies between council and so those interested in redeeming support should check with their local authority.

CHRISTMAS has come early for Sainsbury’s shoppers after they discovered a £24 festive essential is scanning at tills for just £7.50.

Savvy customers have been rushing to their nearest store to try and bag up the Xmas item which has been described as “stunning” and a “bargain”.

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The supermarket giant has sent fans wild by selling a Night Before Xmas Bedding set featuring a range of Christmas classic images.

A decorated tree, a snowman, Santa Claus, candy canes, a reindeer and even an elf carrying presents all are included on one side of the duvet cover and pillow cases.

On the reverse sits a red and white candy cane print.

Sainsbury’s describes the item online by saying: “Christmas is right around the corner.

“Snuggle into this soft bedding set featuring festive illustrations.

“Or flip it over for a jolly, candy-cane patterned look.”

It comes in a range of sizes from single up to super king.

The price online lists it as costing £24.

But lucky shoppers have noticed a mega bargain on the bedding with it being sold in store for a whopping £16.80 less than advertised.

One customer shared the find on Facebook and posted a picture of the playful bedding alongside the caption: “My first proper bargain in Sainsbury’s.

“Originally £24 for the double, scanning at only £7.20!

“The single one usually £20 scanning at £10.”

Several people quickly jumped into the comments section under the post as they spoke about how tempting the deal was.

One described the set as “stunning”.

As another told their pal: “Can u look for me pls in king.”

A third chimed in to their friend saying: “I just looked on Sainsbury’s website and still showing full price. You got a bargain.”

However do bear in mind that when prices are reduced by this much it’s usually in order for stores to clear excess stock, so availability will vary from store to store.

It’s always best to phone ahead to your local shop to check what they have available to avoid disappointment.

It always pays to compare prices so you know you’re getting the best deal.

There are plenty of comparison websites out there that’ll check prices for you – so don’t be left paying more than you have to.

Most of them work by comparing the prices across hundreds of retailers.

Google Shopping is a tool that lets users search for and compare prices for products across the web.

Simply type in keywords, or a product number, to bring up search results.

Christmas fanatics have also spotted a festive essential on offer at Home Bargains.

Shoppers are racing to their nearest store to buy £4 Polar Express slippers in time for the big day.

CNBC’s Robert Frank goes behind-the-scenes for an exclusive look inside the new Rolls-Royce Private Office, a secret design studio in downtown Manhattan, accessible only to VIP Rolls-Royce clients.

THOUSANDS of struggling households have been left without vital energy bill help following a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) error.

The Winter Heating Payment (WHP) is made automatically by Social Security Scotland to those on a low income or benefits once a year.

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It is the Scottish equivalent of the Cold Weather Payment, which is made to households in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The energy bill help is worth £58.75.

But around 37,000 households have missed out on the payment due to an error made by the DWP when passing claimant details to the Scottish government, according to The Times

Shirley-Anne Somerville, the social justice secretary, told the publication Social Security Scotland had noticed an issue “with a number of seemingly eligible clients” and had asked the DWP to investigate.

This revealed that thousands of eligible households had been missed and failed to receive their payment.

Anyone who has been affected by the WHP error will receive a letter this week letting them know that they are entitled to the support.

The Sun has contacted the DWP for comment.

It comes after the Scottish government, in line with the rest of the UK, confirmed it will no longer provide winter fuel payments to all pensioners.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves revealed earlier this year that the Winter Fuel Payment would only be given to retirees on pension credit, or other means-tested benefits.

Those who qualify will receive a payment of either £200 or £300.

The Sun has launched a ­Winter Fuel SOS campaign to help thousands of pensioners worried about their energy bills.

Who is eligible for the Winter Heating Payment?

The WHP is made to households who were receiving certain benefits during what’s known as the “qualifying week”.

This year’s qualifying week is November 4 to November 10.

So, if you were receiving any of the below benefits between the above dates, you should qualify:

• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit
• Income Support
• Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income Related Employment Support Allowance
• Support for Mortgage Interest

You also have to meet one specific requirement of one of the above qualifying benefits.

Further information can be found on the Scottish Government’s website.

You can also find a checker tool on its website which tells you if you qualify for the payment.

It will ask you questions about where you live, who you live with, what benefits you receive and when you received your benefits.

If you’ve not been paid the WHP and think you are eligible, you should contact Social Security Scotland.

You can do this by calling them on 0800 182 2222.

When will I be paid?

Households entitled to the Winter Heating Payment usually see the cash start landing in their bank accounts from the middle of December with payments being made up until the end of January.

If you are in line for the payment this year, you will also receive a letter from Social Security Scotland beforehand.

The payment has previously appeared alongside the code “WHP” on bank statements.

Almost 400,000 received the WHP payment in the winter of 2022/23.

What is the Winter Fuel Payment?

Consumer reporter Sam Walker explains all you need to know about the payment.

The Winter Fuel Payment is an annual tax-free benefit designed to help cover the cost of heating through the colder months.

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Most who are eligible receive the payment automatically.

Those who qualify are usually told via a letter sent in October or November each year.

If you do meet the criteria but don’t automatically get the Winter Fuel Payment, you will have to apply on the government’s website.

You’ll qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment this winter if:

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• you were born on or before September 23, 1958
• you lived in the UK for at least one day during the week of September 16 to 22, 2024, known as the “qualifying week”
• you receive Pension Credit, Universal Credit, ESA, JSA, Income Support, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit

If you did not live in the UK during the qualifying week, you might still get the payment if both the following apply:

• you live in Switzerland or a EEA country
• you have a “genuine and sufficient” link with the UK social security system, such as having lived or worked in the UK and having a family in the UK

But there are exclusions – you can’t get the payment if you live in Cyprus, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Malta, Portugal or Spain.

This is because the average winter temperature is higher than the warmest region of the UK.

You will also not qualify if you:

• are in hospital getting free treatment for more than a year
• need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave states that you can not claim public funds
• were in prison for the whole “qualifying week”
• lived in a care home for the whole time between 26 June to 24 September 2023, and got Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance

Payments are usually made between November and December, with some made up until the end of January the following year.