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Multiple part time jobs & National Insurance Contributions, State Pension

Hi there,

I'm sure I'm not the only one in this particular pickle, here's my question!

I work as a carer and have multiple part time jobs which added together adds up to an equivalent full time job.  The problem is each mini job I have comes under the LEL (Lower earnings limit) to qualify for National Insurance contributions which as far as I know is £123 per week, thus potentially negatively affecting my future State Pension.  I've asked payroll if they can combine my earnings together, ( I work through a charity who administrate my earnings for each separate employer), to enable me to qualify for NI contributions and they say they can't help.  I've called HMRC, the DWP and they just ping pong tennis me to and fro between them all.  It's driving me bonkers, if anyone has any useful suggestions I'd be very grateful!

All the best,

A. Believer

Comments

  • molerat
    molerat Posts: 36,581
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Forumite
    edited 24 March 2025 at 11:56AM
    Unfortunately that is how it works.  It is good for some people as they get a higher NI free wage, £241 each week from each job, and still get credits, but in your situation it has a negative outcome.  You would need to get one of the jobs above the LEL if the payroll won't play ball.

    Never associate with idiots on their own level, because, being an intelligent man, you'll try to deal with them on their level - and on their level they'll beat you every time.

    Being hated by idiots is the price you pay for not being one of them.

    Jean Cocteau 1889-1963

  • Thanks molerat, I think I'll try to put a bit more pressure on payroll.  With one of my jobs I'm only about 70p from qualifying, it's completely nuts!
  • molerat
    molerat Posts: 36,581
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Forumite
    £125 from April

    Never associate with idiots on their own level, because, being an intelligent man, you'll try to deal with them on their level - and on their level they'll beat you every time.

    Being hated by idiots is the price you pay for not being one of them.

    Jean Cocteau 1889-1963

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