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NI contributions during 1 year sabbatical abroad?

Hi all, my first posting to a great forum. I've searched but not quite found the advice I need. I'm going to Oz for a year in October 07 and will not be working, and am wondering whether I should pay Class 3 voluntary contributions (currently apprx £400/year) whilst out of the country. I'm 58 so 6 or 7 years from retirement.

I guess the question might be "how long do I have to live after retirement to make it worthwhile" lol.

Comments

  • EdInvestor
    EdInvestor Posts: 15,749 Forumite
    If you already have 30 years in hand you might like to hold off, as the law is likely to change soon making that amount enough for those retiring after 2010 to get the full BSP.
    Trying to keep it simple...;)
  • Katykat
    Katykat Posts: 1,743 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    EdInvestor. When is the law likely to change? I also had a year in OZ in the lete 80's. I am 54 now, get my state pension at 62 & NHS pension at 60. I got a letter earlier this year telling me that there was a shortfall in my contributions ( i also had 3 yrs off in the 70's when kids were born) When I rang to ask what to do, I was told, dont worry, this letter was sent by mistake. Will this law come in before I retire, in which case, does that mean I dont have to purchase additional years?
    By the way, I did work whilst in Oz, but have no documentation now. DSS said I would need a letter from someone in Oz who knew me whilst i was there ( which I can get)
    :smileyhea A SMILE COSTS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING
  • EdInvestor
    EdInvestor Posts: 15,749 Forumite
    Katykat wrote: »
    EdInvestor. When is the law likely to change?

    Over the next year, so you should be OK.
    i also had 3 yrs off in the 70's when kids were born

    This should be covered by Home responsibilities protection, check.
    By the way, I did work whilst in Oz, but have no documentation now. DSS said I would need a letter from someone in Oz who knew me whilst i was there ( which I can get)


    The state pension people will check this out if necessary when you are due to retire, no letter required.
    Trying to keep it simple...;)
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