The New State Pension is based on each partner’s individual National Insurance record, so a couple does not usually receive one joint pension and having children does not automatically increase the payment. The person who claims Child Benefit for a child under 12 may receive National Insurance credits, which can help build their State Pension entitlement without paid employment; credits may sometimes be transferred to the other parent. You usually need at least 10 qualifying years for any New State Pension, while 35 years is commonly needed for the full rate, although individual records vary. Check both forecasts on GOV.UK for the most accurate position.