I am receiving the UK state Pension from DWP. I have gaps in contributions especially for last few years. There is an indication that paying voluntary contribution of about 800 pounds sterling per year, my pension would increase 5 pounds per week. That seems to be about a 3 year return on investment.

I tried to get clarity as to whether I can do this after starting my pension but the reply was ambiguous, does anyone have direct knowledge?

"There are payment deadlines and typically you can only fill NI gaps from the past six years - however this has been extended and you currently have until 5 April 2025 to pay voluntary contributions to make up for gaps between tax years April 2006 and April 2016 if you are eligible. This will revert back to the six year rule again after 2 April 2025."

Once you start drawing your pension the door slams closed on the possibility of making additional contributions.

I am not sure if your advice is now correct, I received an email from International pensions and they have calculated the amount I can pay and the additional pension I would receive. It took 8 months for this response but they indicate a recalculation would happen once they receive the voluntary contribution. I want to reaffirm that in very specific language but give the 8 month turnaround time, I am still less comfortable than I should be. I am 80% sure it is possible but not 100%

I always thought that too, but it does now look as if you can make payments AFTER you've started claiming the pension.

You may pay voluntary contributions after you claim your pension but your pension will only increase from the date that we received your payment.

I agree - one of my sisters has just Topped up and she started her UK State pension 4 years ago.