HMRC Extra Financial Support: If you’re a woman aged between 60 and 79, you may be entitled to extra financial support from HMRC due to historical errors linked to the Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) scheme. This could significantly boost your State Pension—and in many cases, result in a hefty lump sum payout. But how do you check if you’re eligible? Let’s break it all down.
From 1978 to 2010, HRP was in place to protect the State Pension rights of those who took time off work to raise children or care for dependents. However, due to missing National Insurance numbers on Child Benefit claims before May 2000, some women didn’t receive the National Insurance credits they were owed—leaving a shortfall in their pension payments.
HMRC Extra Financial Support
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Who is affected | Women aged 60 to 79 who claimed Child Benefit before May 2000 |
| Issue | Missing National Insurance credits due to HRP errors |
| Impact | Reduced State Pension payments and potential underpayments |
| Solution | Apply for missing HRP credits using CF411 form or online |
| Possible payout | Lump sums—some women received over £17,000 |
| Additional help | May qualify for Pension Credit and other benefits |
| Official Source | HMRC Website |
The issue of HRP-related State Pension underpayments highlights how administrative errors can deeply impact the lives of women who dedicated years to unpaid caregiving. Thankfully, HMRC is now correcting this, and many could receive thousands of pounds in missed pension payments.
If you’re a woman aged 60 to 79 who claimed Child Benefit before May 2000, don’t wait—check your National Insurance record, fill the CF411 form, and get the support you deserve.
What Is Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP)?
The HRP scheme was designed to ensure that people who were unable to work due to caring responsibilities weren’t penalized in their State Pension calculations. By awarding National Insurance credits, HRP protected individuals from pension shortfalls.
But here’s the catch: if your Child Benefit application before May 2000 didn’t include your National Insurance number, HMRC might not have applied these credits correctly.
This means you could have fewer qualifying years on your National Insurance record—leading to a lower State Pension than what you truly deserve.
How Big Is the Problem?
Thousands of people—mostly women—are affected. According to a report by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), around 237,000 people may have been underpaid due to HRP-related errors.
“We are taking steps to correct the records of those affected. Anyone who may have been missed can now apply,” HMRC stated in a press release.
In one case, a woman received a £17,000 lump sum after her record was corrected.
Who Is Eligible For HMRC Extra Financial Support?
You may be eligible if:
- You’re aged 60 to 79 (born between 6 April 1940 and 5 April 1969)
- You claimed Child Benefit between 1978 and 2000
- Your National Insurance number was not included in the Child Benefit application
- You have a State Pension shortfall as a result
Even if HMRC hasn’t contacted you yet, you can still check your eligibility and take action.
How to Check and Claim HMRC Extra Financial Support
Step 1: Review Your National Insurance Record
Visit the Gov.uk National Insurance page to check if there are gaps during the years you were caring for children.
Step 2: Use the HRP Eligibility Checker
Use HMRC’s HRP eligibility tool to see if you’re likely to be affected.
Step 3: Submit the CF411 Form
If eligible, fill out the CF411 form and send it to HMRC.
Alternatively, you can apply online using your Government Gateway account.
Step 4: Follow Up with HMRC
If your correction is approved, your State Pension may be increased, and you could also receive a lump sum for missed payments.
Other Financial Help You May Qualify For
Pension Credit
If your income is low, you may be entitled to Pension Credit, which could:
- Boost your weekly income
- Unlock free NHS dental treatment, Cold Weather Payments, and more
Learn more or apply at the official Pension Credit website.
Winter Fuel and Housing Support
Those on low pensions may also get:
- Winter Fuel Payment of up to £600
- Council tax support
- Help with rent and heating bills
Real-Life Example
Let’s say Mary, aged 71, claimed Child Benefit from 1985 to 1995, but didn’t include her National Insurance number in the form. She receives only £125 per week in State Pension instead of the full rate of £185.15.
Mary checks her National Insurance record, fills the CF411 form, and HMRC finds she missed 10 years of HRP credits. Her pension is increased, and she receives a backdated payment of £9,800.
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FAQs on HMRC Extra Financial Support
1. How do I know if I missed HRP credits?
Check your National Insurance record for gaps during the years you were receiving Child Benefit. Use HMRC’s eligibility tool online.
2. What is the deadline to apply for missing HRP credits?
There’s no fixed deadline right now, but HMRC recommends applying as soon as possible.
3. Can men apply too?
Yes—men who took time off work to care for children and claimed Child Benefit may also be affected.
4. What if I no longer have my Child Benefit records?
You can still apply. HMRC may be able to trace your Child Benefit history through internal systems.
5. Will this affect my tax?
Your lump sum may be considered taxable income. It’s advisable to speak to a tax advisor if you’re unsure.
