JSA for NI credits only and new pension rules

Londonsu

Just been asked a question by my sister and cant find the answer.


She has just lost her job she is entitled to cont based JSA but would not be entitled to income based if she doesn't get a job before it runs out.


Now under the old pension rules she would need to sign on to get her NICs which would have gone towards her pension, but under the new rules (if we have read things correctly) as she has already worked over the 35 years needed for the new flat rate pension and she has had a future pension statement which shows she will get more than the flat rate of £155 she will still get that amount under the protected payment rules but any NI contributions or credits from now will not count towards a higher state pension.


If this is the case and she can live without the £74 quid cont based is it worth her signing on.

sammyjammy

There is no need for her to sign for NI credits for her pension based on what you say, although if she did and her circumstances changed at a later date those credits might later entitle her to further Contribution JSA. Entirely her choice.

Turquoisescooter

I have a similar question. I have been made redundant and visited the JSA Centre and after signing on for contribution based payments I received a letter advising that out of the 2 tax years looked at for NI one year's contribution was too low. The letter advises that they may still credit me with Class 1 NIC if I continue to attend the Jobcentre. Having looked at my pension details online via Gov.UK it shows that as at 5 April 2016 they estimated that I would be due £146.30 per week on retirement with advice if I worked another 3 years before 2029 an advised estimate of £155.65. The main question is whether it is worth attending the Jobcentre or have I enough to qualify for my pension - I do intend to return to work in the future. As an aside to this question - I find it really odd that apparently enough NIC was paid even during periods when I was not working due to having just had a child (and not receiving maternity benefits) but one year where I was working part time NIC was insufficient.

Sorry for lengthy question but I am finding I am receiving much conflicting advice and if I could avoid those 'visits' to the Jobcentre it would be welcomed!