How long is too long to wait for top up ?

mazwol

Hello, My husband had missing years. After getting through to the Future Pension Centre, he was told how much he needed to top up his class 2 contributions and was given a reference number. The amount was paid in June 2023, but his NI record has not changed and he will still not be receiving full pension. We cannot seem to get through on the phone anymore. We wrote a letter as we wish to close the bank account that the top up amount was paid from, but have heard nothing. It is now over 6 months since we sent the money. Any ideas please ? Are they really that far behind ?

molerat

How did you send the money ?

I am afraid phoning or digital assistant https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/ask-hmrc/chat/national-insurance  is the only real way to make contact, writing can take over 6 months for it to be looked at.

mazwol

Sent by bank transfer - have a record but as said wish to close that bank account but daren't until this is sorted out 

Marcon

mazwol said:

Hello, My husband had missing years. After getting through to the Future Pension Centre, he was told how much he needed to top up his class 2 contributions and was given a reference number. The amount was paid in June 2023, but his NI record has not changed and he will still not be receiving full pension. We cannot seem to get through on the phone anymore. We wrote a letter as we wish to close the bank account that the top up amount was paid from, but have heard nothing. It is now over 6 months since we sent the money. Any ideas please ? Are they really that far behind ?

Yes, I'm afraid they are. A year isn't uncommon and could be nearer to two years - see https://community.hmrc.gov.uk/customerforums/ni/ced7fc9e-55d4-ed11-9ac4-00155d9c773c

Provided you have a bank statement confirming the transfer was made, then surely there's no reason to keep the bank account open?

ProDave

Is this very long delay only for postal enquiries and payments?

It might explain why 2 months after making a voluntary class 2 NI payment it is still showing as year is not complete on my "check your pension" page.  My payment was made via my self assesment payment on line.  Is this really going to take a very long time to ripple through the system?

mazwol

thank you for the answers so far, will try and remain patient for another few months