The mid-life money check
Lesson 12 of 13 in our free Pensions guide: a 5-minute money game with the key points below.
This lesson is in the full version.
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Questions you'll answer
You usually need 35 qualifying years of National Insurance for the full new State Pension. Your forecast shows 22 years so far. How many more qualifying years do you need for the full amount?
A company calls offering a 'free pension review' and says you can unlock your pension early to fund your studies. What is it?
Quick facts
- Fact: “The full new State Pension is £241.30 a week in 2026/27.” — That's the full amount. What you get depends on your National Insurance record.
- Myth: “Years spent studying always count towards your State Pension.” — Study on its own doesn't usually earn qualifying years. Work, credits or voluntary contributions do.
- Fact: “You can usually pay voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill gaps in the past 6 years.” — Check your forecast first. Get guidance before paying, as it isn't worth it for everyone.
- Myth: “Pension pots from old jobs are lost for ever once you leave.” — They're still yours. The free Pension Tracing Service helps you find the contact details.
- Find out how many qualifying National Insurance years you have → State Pension forecast (gov.uk). Your forecast shows your record and what you're on track for.
- Find the contact details for a pension from a job 15 years ago → Pension Tracing Service. The Pension Tracing Service finds pension scheme contact details.
- Get free, impartial help understanding your options → MoneyHelper guidance. MoneyHelper gives free pensions guidance, including Pension Wise appointments for people aged 50 or over with a pension pot.