i am on IB and am falling short in NI contributions

sazzler73

Hi

I have been on incapacity benefit for the last 8 years, its up for renewal now but not heard anything yet.
I was worried if i did not get it what i would be entitlied to.
So i rand the DWP and they inform me i would not be entitled to any other benefit as i have not been paying NI contributions as i am not on a income based benefit.
I did not realise this and also that it could effect my pension.

I am 37 years old, what can i do

Can i make up the short fall in some way

would this then help me to get contribution based job seekers if i no longer get my IB as i will need some help. would not get income based JSA as i live with my partner.

Also would this help my pension.

I wish they had told me this 8 years ago as i may of been able to pay some.

I dont really like living of benefits but i am in bad health with a chronic illness and worried that the new ESA rules i will be kicked off it.

any advice will help