Gap in National Insurance Contributions 2007/08 (but not 2008/09) - please help!

ooopsadaisy

Hello,

I'm new to this forum so please bear with me.

Basically I had a letter a couple of years ago saying I had a gap in my NICs for 2007/08 tax year, of £273.00.

I started 3 years of full-time studying at uni in 2006, when I was 18 and I'm aware that you are given 3 years of credits from when you're 16 (in other words tax years 04/05, 05/06, 06/07.)

I worked in the holidays of 2007/08, and did not pay tax but did pay NICs for the little that I worked. I understand that I have to make up the full amount for that year with £273.00.

However, what I don't understand is why do I not have a gap for 2008/09 tax year? I was still at university, and still did holiday work, although from my payslips I did not contribute tax nor any NICs. Overall I earnt a similar amount for the year as in 07/08.

I have rung up the HMRC twice now, with contrary explanation. The last woman said I would get a letter regarding 2008/09 in a few years time because the Pension system has changed, but then said that I wouldn't have to pay NICs for that year anyway?

The only explanation I can think of is that in my 2007/08 holiday work, I sometimes earnt just over the weekly primary threshold/lower earnings limit (hence paying NICs) whereas 2008/09 I was probably just under (hence not paying NICs). But it seems a little strange to then make me fulfill the NICs for the 2007/08 year, but (I'm presuming) credit me for 2008/09, considering I earnt a similar (and relatively small!) amount in both.

I am totally confused and although I would like to pay it voluntarily, am unwilling to do so until I understand this difference. Please help!

HappyMJ

You can skip a year without too much worry. I'm sure you'll make it up by the time of your retirement. You only need 30 full years now.

McKneff

I agree with HappyMJ, you only need 30 years NI contributions to qualify for a state pension, so just dont worry about it.