Missing NI contributions

My wife retired on an ill health occupational pension in December 2009 at age 49. She has not yet claimed ESA and is concerned regarding her NI contributions as she believes she needs 50 contributions in each of the past two tax years. Can she buy the missing contributions from tax year 2009-10 so she can now make a claim?

Advice and suggestions appreciated.

Hi Gillies

It would probably be best to see the CAB about this one. You may find some useful information at the link below.

the pensions advisory service

There is a table telling you how much it would cost, but it does look a little complexed.

Hope this is helpful.

Derek

To the best of my knowledge, the relevant income tax years are the two preceding the benefit year in which you start the claim. The current benefit year started in Jan 2010, so the tax years they will go on are 2007/08 and 2008/09.

So I would say your wife doesn't need to worry about an incomplete record for 2009/10. But I am not an expert, so if no-one here offers a definitive view do double check.

All the best
Elaine