State Retirement Pensions: National Insurance Contributions

To qualify for any payments of the new State Pension, people usually need at least 10 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions or National Insurance credits when they reach State Pension age. The contributions could be as a result of employment, self-employment or people could make voluntary National Insurance Contributions. There is also a wide range of National Insurance credits available, ensuring people can achieve the best possible State Pension outcome. In some circumstances, years built while living in countries with a reciprocal arrangement can be taken into account.

The Government makes personalised information available through the online Check Your State Pension Forecast service, which includes details about an individual’s National Insurance record and their State Pension eligibility.

The Government also provides support to older people on low incomes. Pension Credit provides a safety net for those most in need and is not based on National Insurance contributions. Pension Credit is a means tested benefit which targets help at the poorest pensioners and is a passport to other financial support including the Winter Fuel Payment, help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and a free TV licence for those over 75.