How to calculate your state pension
State pension is based on qualifying years of contributions, not on how much you earned. You need a minimum number of years to get anything and a full record to get the maximum, with the amount scaling pro-rata in between.
The rule
State pension = full rate × (qualifying years ÷ years needed for the full rate)
Do it automatically — State pension forecastStep by step
- 1Check your contribution record for completed qualifying years.
- 2Add the years you will still work before state pension age.
- 3Divide by the number of years required for the full amount and multiply by the full rate.
- 4Check whether buying voluntary contributions for gap years is worthwhile.
What trips people up
- • Career breaks, low-paid part-time work and time abroad commonly create gap years.
- • Voluntary contributions often pay for themselves within a few years of retirement.
Common questions
Is state pension taxable?
Yes — it counts as income, though it is usually paid without tax deducted.
Can I claim it while still working?
Yes, once you reach state pension age, but it stacks on your salary for tax purposes.
Skip the maths
Estimated state pension based on your qualifying years, for UK / Ireland / US.
Open the qualifying years tool