A State Pension forecast estimates how much State Pension you could receive and when you may be able to claim it, based mainly on your National Insurance record. You usually need at least 10 qualifying years for any new State Pension, while 35 years may be needed for the full rate, although people with older records or time contracted out can have different results. You can check your forecast and National Insurance record through the official GOV.UK service, which may also show ways to increase your forecast. The amount and eligibility are ultimately decided by the Department for Work and Pensions.