Gaps in your National Insurance record may mean you have fewer qualifying years and could receive less State Pension, although the effect depends on your circumstances and when you reached State Pension age. You can check your record and forecast on GOV.UK to see whether paying voluntary contributions might improve your entitlement. Before paying, use the government’s voluntary National Insurance contributions service or contact the Future Pension Centre, as filling a gap does not always increase your pension. Your final entitlement is decided by the Department for Work and Pensions using your individual record.