DWP has issued an alert as millions are missing out on little known benefit - and people can boost pension pots by as much as £328.

DWP urges people to come forward for £328 extra in their benefit payment

by · Birmingham Live

The Department for Work and Pensions has issued an update over missing payments of more than £300. The DWP has issued an alert as millions are missing out on little known benefit - and people can boost pension pots by as much as £328.

Those who are eligible for Carer's credit could potentially boost their State Pension by £328 per year. Experts at Mobilise, a community for unpaid carers, is urging the nation's 10million carers to apply for 'carer's credit' to ensure households they can get the full new state pension.

National Insurance (NI) contributions can be topped up to make up for gaps in a person's National Insurance record. The cost of a top-up depends on the tax year being topped up and whether it's a full or partial year.

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Suzanne Bourne, an expert at unpaid carer support service Mobilise, said: "We're encouraging everyone to check whether they are eligible as soon as possible." Ms Bourne explained Carer's credit can be backdated to the start of the previous tax year even if the person you care for no longer needs help, or if they have died.

She said: "So it's vital that you don't leave it too long to submit your application, if you think you're eligible." By claiming the credit, you could potentially increase your state pension by £328 annually - adding up to over £6,000 over the course of a typical retirement.

Voluntary contributions do not always increase your State Pension, for example if you were contracted out. If you’re below State Pension age, check your State Pension forecast to find out if you’ll benefit from paying voluntary contributions.

You can also contact the Future Pension Centre. If you’ve reached State Pension age, contact the Pension Service to find out if you’ll benefit from voluntary contributions. If you’re living or working abroad and you’re over, or within 6 months of reaching State Pension age, contact the International Pension Centre for advice.