### Urgent Call to Action: DWP Warns State Pensioners of Upcoming Deadlines The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a critical reminder to state pensioners regarding the impending April 5 deadline for making necessary checks and claims that could significantly enhance their pension entitlements. With the potential to increase payments by thousands of pounds, the DWP is urging individuals to act swiftly to avoid missing out on these benefits. This message comes as part of a broader initiative to ensure that pensioners are aware of their rights and the financial support available to them, particularly in light of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis affecting many Britons [https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2025010/dwp-urgent-state-pension-message]. ### Breakdown of Key Information and Actions Required 1. **Deadline Awareness**: - State pensioners must check their National Insurance (NI) records and fill any gaps by April 5, 2025, to qualify for increased payments [https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2024974/dwp-issues-warning-state-pensioners-deadline]. 2. **Potential Financial Boost**: - By addressing gaps in their NI contributions, pensioners could potentially add up to £50,000 to their state pension [https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/state-pensioners-urged-come-forward-31144297]. 3. **Post-Deadline Options**: - Even after the April 5 deadline, there are provisions for pensioners to boost their state pension by requesting a callback to discuss voluntary NI contributions [https://www.guernseypress.com/news/uk-news/2025/03/06/people-may-still-boost-state-pension-even-after-deadline-passes-in-april]. 4. **National Insurance Credits**: - Pensioners may be eligible for free National Insurance credits under certain circumstances, which can further enhance their pension amounts [https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2022319/boost-state-pension-claim-national-insurance-credits]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Financial Impact**: - The DWP has highlighted that individuals who do not have enough years of NI contributions can "top up" their pension, potentially increasing their annual payments by **£330** or more [https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/state-pensioners-issued-major-update-31118570]. - The opportunity to claim backdated NI credits could lead to a total increase of **up to £79,000** for eligible pensioners [https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2021858/pensioners-given-more-time-get-79000]. ### Conclusion: Act Now to Secure Your State Pension Benefits In summary, the DWP's recent announcements underscore the urgency for state pensioners to review their National Insurance records and take action before the April 5 deadline. 1. **Immediate Action Required**: Check NI records and fill gaps by April 5, 2025. 2. **Financial Opportunities**: Potentially increase pension payments by thousands. 3. **Post-Deadline Options**: Opportunities remain to boost pensions even after the deadline. 4. **Utilize Available Resources**: Claim free National Insurance credits where applicable. **Failure to act could result in significant financial loss for many pensioners, making it imperative to engage with the DWP's resources promptly** [https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/money/boost-state-pension-after-april-34791999].