HMRC Apologises as State Pension Forecast Tool Error Impacts 800,000 Workers
London, 13 February 2026 – HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued a formal apology after a significant technical error in its online State Pension forecast tool was found to have provided inaccurate estimates for nearly a decade. The glitch, which has now been corrected, resulted in approximately 800,000 people receiving inflated projections of their future retirement income.
Nine-Year Technical Glitch Corrected
The error dates back to the tool’s launch ten years ago. Investigations revealed that the system incorrectly calculated National Insurance contributions for a vast number of users, leading to overvalued forecasts. By 2019, it is estimated that 360,000 people had already received incorrect data, a figure that has more than doubled in the years since.
The Government confirmed this week that the software has been updated to reflect accurate figures. However, the correction means many workers approaching retirement may find their expected annual income is significantly lower than previously stated, with some individuals reporting projected shortfalls of up to £2,000 per year.
Impact on Retirement Planning
The “State Pension Forecast” tool is a primary resource for UK citizens to determine their eligibility and the date they can begin claiming. Because many users rely on these figures to decide when they can afford to stop working, the revelation of a nine-year inaccuracy has caused widespread concern among those in their late 50s and 60s.
HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are urging taxpayers to log back into the official “Check your State Pension” service to view their revised, accurate forecast. Those who have made financial decisions based on the previous inflated figures are advised to contact the Future Pension Centre for guidance.
Key Facts: State Pension Forecast Error
The following table outlines the scope of the technical issue and the official channels for resolution.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated People Affected | Up to 800,000 individuals |
| Duration of Error | Approximately 9 years (since tool launch) |
| Nature of Problem | Overestimated pension payments due to software glitch |
| Status | Fixed as of February 2026 |
| Official Helpline (UK) | 0800 731 0175 |
| Official Helpline (Overseas) | +44 (0)191 218 3600 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my forecast was wrong?
If you checked your State Pension forecast online at any point before February 2026, your figures may have been overstated. You should log in to the official GOV.UK “Check your State Pension” service again to see your updated and corrected entitlement.
Can I still increase my State Pension?
Yes. If your corrected forecast shows a shortfall, you may be able to pay voluntary National Insurance contributions to fill gaps in your record. You can contact the National Insurance helpline on 0300 200 3500 to discuss your eligibility for these payments.
Who should I contact for a manual statement?
If you prefer not to use the online tool or require a paper statement (form BR19), you should contact the Future Pension Centre. They can provide a definitive record of your projected State Pension based on your current National Insurance history.