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Voluntary Contributions: Chronic Illnesses and Disability

Asked by Jayne KirkhamLabour (Co-op)TreasuryTabled Answered 26 March 2026UIN 123043

The question

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she has made an assessment of the potential merits of allowing people with disabilities and chronic illness so add voluntary National Insurance contributions beyond the current six year limit.

Answered by Torsten Bell

Individuals can pay voluntary National Insurance contributions for up to six years in arrears to fill gaps in their National Insurance record.

There are also a wide range of National Insurance credits available, ensuring people can build their National Insurance record. Some are linked to benefits that can be claimed in relation to illness or disability such as Employment and Support Allowance.

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