Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what options will be available for people to purchase additional National Insurance Contributions on a phased basis over a period of years in order to qualify for the new state pension.

The time limits for paying voluntary contributions for those who reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016, the date when the new State Pension is introduced, have been extended. Those with non-qualifying years from 2006-07 to 2015-16 have until 5 April 2023 to pay voluntary contributions. However, if they are paid after 6 April 2019 they will be charged at a higher rate. A person can pay voluntary contributions in a lump sum or can spread the payment over a period of time subject to the time limits and higher rate provisions that may apply.