Can I top up my state pension?

amibovvered

I think the answer to my own question is no, but thought it worth checking with those more knowledgeable than me, before it is too late (if it isn't already!).

My National Insurance record shows that I have the 2 years up to 5 April 1975 (being in full-time education) then full years from April 1975 to April 2011. 

I was employed in Local Government and paying into LGPS from Feb 1976 to July 2010 then received Carers Allowance until July 2011. Although I was only 54 at that point I didn't return to paid employment but lived off savings until my LGPS was payable at 60. 

Obviously I was contracted out for most of my working life, so not eligible for the full state pension. At some point (can't quite remember when) I did telephone the Future Pension Centre to ask about Voluntary contributions and as a consequence I paid for the years from April 2016 to April 2023. I started drawing my state pension in June 2023, and currently receive £215.92 per week, so about £6 short of the full amount. 

I think I was told that there was no benefit in paying for the years 2011 to April 2016 but just want confirmation of that if anyone can help.

TIA

molerat

With already in excess of 30-35 pre 2016 years and a long contracted out history any additional pre 2016 years would not add to your pension

amibovvered

Thank you for your response. As I said, I suspected that would be the case, but I didn't want to find out in future that I could have bought one more year and be kicking myself!