Latest Revenue blunder hits 10 million taxpayers
More than 10 million people will be asked to pay extra in national insurance contributions following an Inland Revenue error that risks their right to a full basic state pension.
Link: Inland Revenue in £1bn accounting bodge
The administrative gaffe occurred in the years 1996-97 and 2001-02 when the Revenue failed to send out reminders to those who had the ability to top up their contributions. The deficits, reports the Financial Times range upwards of £200, with the average amount being closer to £425.
The worst-affected – numbering about 200,000 people – will have to pay £1,500 to safeguard their pensions, and will have until 2008 to do so.