How do I get the total number of qualifying years for my state pension?

The best way to get the total number of qualifying years for your state pension is to get a state pension forecast.

Your forecast will tell you:

1. The total number of qualifying years you have
2. What state pension you are likely to get
3. How to increase it, if you can

You have three ways to get a forecast:

1. Use your online personal tax account
2. Call the Future Pension Centre helpline
3. Print and post a form BR19

The easiest and quickest way is to use your personal tax account. It can be a faff to set up an account or log back in if you have forgotten your details.

I like the form BR19 because it has a space to authorise sending the forecast to a 3rd party like your accountant or financial adviser. You’ll get your forecast within 10 working days.