HMRC warns state pensioners to locate their 18 digit code which is crucial

HMRC has warned state pensioners to find a 18 digit number which is crucial for them to buy back National Insurance credits. The customer service Twitter/X account for the tax department spoke out on social media this week.

A taxpayer asked: "@HMRCcustomers Good morning, if I wanted to buy back N. I. credits and can’t do it online, how would I go about it please? Tried calling the Future Pension Service but just get referred back to the website and cut off."

"Hi. Do you have gaps in your National Insurance history, and if so do you wish to make voluntary contributions to cover the gaps? Rob," HMRC asked. "Yes, that’s correct thank you. When I check my NI record on your website, it says I am unable to do so online," the taxpayer said.

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HMRC said: "Thanks. Do you need to establish the amount of the missing contributions, or do you know the amount you need to pay? Rob." The taxpayer said: "I know how much I need to pay thank you." HMRC responded: "Please see the link for the payment methods: https://gov.uk/pay-voluntary-class-3-national-insurance… Rob. Pay voluntary Class 3 National Insurance. How to pay your voluntary Class 3 National Insurance contributions - online, Direct Debit, bank transfer, cheque."

The taxpayer said: "Thank you for this but there is no answer on here to my query." HMRC said: "If you wish to make the payment online, you'll need a reference number issuing to you, by contacting an adviser on the helpline: https://gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/national-insurance-enquiries-for-employees-and-individuals… Rob."

The taxpayer said: "Thank you but as I explained earlier, when I log in to my account, it says I am unable to make payment online?" HMRC said: "Do you have the 18 digit reference number required to make an online payment? Rob."

The taxpayer said: "Thanks, I am totally confused as you can probably tell! So, if I obtain an 18 digit reference number, then I can make an online payment even although my account says otherwise?" HMRC said: "Correct. You can't make an online payment without the reference number. Rob."

The taxpayer said: "Good morning, I tried what you advised and have been told I need to contact the Pension Service, disappointingly more going round in circles."