Specified adult childcare credits: how they can boost your state pension 

We reveal how specified adult childcare credits work and how they could potentially boost your state pension by thousands. 

What are specified adult childcare credits? 

The catchily named specified adult childcare credits, also known as ‘grandparents’ childcare credit,’ are a little-known benefit that can boost grandparents’ state pension (or the state pension of other eligible family members). 

This is because these credits can be used to fill any gaps in their national insurance (NI) record, which is used to determine the amount of state pension received.  

To get the full new state pension, you must have 35 qualifying years on your NI record, which you can usually get by working and making NI contributions. 

However, there are some scenarios where you can get NI credits without working and without having to buy them, which can be costly. These scenarios include being ill, a parent, or a carer. 

How do you get specified adult childcare credits, and how do they work? 

If you’re taking care of a family member under the age of 12 while their parent is at work, you can claim NI credits. 

These would typically go to the parent taking care of their child, who is claiming child benefit and not working. 

You’ll get a Class 3 NI credit for each week or part of a week that you care for a young family member.  

However, you’ll only get one NI credit, even if both grandparents care for more than one child (unless they are from different households). 

For example, if both grandparents care for their son’s two children, one NI credit is available. However, if they also care for their daughter’s child, there will be two available if child benefit is claimed by both households.  

The parent must decide who receives this if both are eligible. 

It’s important that the parents claim child benefit if they can – if they don’t, there’s no NI credit available to transfer.   

Who can apply for specified adult childcare credits? 

You can apply for specified adult childcare credits if: 

• You are an eligible family member who has looked after a child under the age of 12. 
• You were at least 16 years old but under the state pension age when you cared for the child. 
• You reside in the UK.  
• The child’s parents or guardian claims child benefit but doesn't need it. 

You must get the child’s parents or guardians to agree to your application by signing the form to confirm you cared for their child and can have the NI credits.  

It’s not just grandparents who can claim NI credits. 

Eligible family members include the following: 

• Mother or father, if they don’t live with their child. 
• Grandparent, great-grandparent, or even a great-great-grandparent.
• Aunt or uncle.
• Brother or sister, including adopted or half and step-siblings.
• Current or previous spouse or civil partner of anyone on this list. 
• Son or daughter of the current or previous spouse, partner or civil partner of anyone on this list.

If you want to apply, you have to do this from 31 October, at the end of the tax year you wish to apply for, as the government needs to check if the parent has a qualifying NI year. 

Who is not eligible for specified adult childcare credits? 

While many people are eligible, you shouldn’t claim if: 

• You already have a qualifying NI year.
• You receive child benefit and get credits automatically.  

Can I backdate claims for specified adult childcare credits? 

Yes, you can backdate claims for specified adult childcare credits to 6 April 2011, when they were introduced.  

You can also apply if you provided care in a different way (over the phone or video) during the COVID pandemic. 

What you should do before applying for specified adult childcare credits 

If you’re planning on applying and haven’t yet reached state pension age, check your forecast. If it’s not the full amount, you should check your NI record for any gaps. 

Alternatively, if you’ve already reached state pension age, check how much you receive and if there are any gaps in your NI record.  

If you discover any gaps in your NI record since 2011 and you’re not getting the full state pension – and cared for a child under the age of 12 – you should consider applying.  

You should also ensure the parent is registered for child benefit – they don’t have to receive it as it shows that they are entitled to NI credits if they don’t earn enough or don’t work.  

How do you apply for specified adult childcare credits? 

You need to fill out the CA9176 form online or send it via the post to apply for specified adult childcare credits. 

There’s a lot of information you’ll need, including details of the child, the parent or guardian registered for child benefit, your personal details, and the dates when you provided childcare.  

You’ll need the parent of the child you’ve cared for to sign this form.  

If you need help, you should call the national insurance helpline on 0300 200 3500. 

Need help with your retirement? 

Unbiased can connect you with a qualified financial adviser who can help you plan for retirement and ensure you have enough money to fund your golden years.