SP errors due to NI gaps

GrandmaSkippy

I'm 74, married in 1970, had my children in 1971 & 74 and my work history & consequent NI contribution record from leaving school in 1969 is fragmented but almost all part-time with years out when the children were small. Divorced 1976, remarried a self-employed chap 1982 but my own work was intermittent until we emigrated in 1990 and I lived in Australia until returning in 2010. 

I became eligible for SP in 2012 but have always received a lower rate, explained as they did not recognise my entire overseas work history, but calculations were always confusing. So I searched the website as suggested to check for gaps in my NI contributions but getting nowhere: they're unable to show my record as I 'paid a reduced rate of National Insurance as a married woman'.

I'm confused !?!?!? Any suggestions to avoid having to phone them ?

molerat

As you chose to pay the "small stamp" that means you did not build up an entitlement to the state pension, only the full NI payments counted and only full years - part years count for nothing. If you did not pay the full stamp then there is nothing to show on your NI record. Unfortunately quite a common occurrence leaving you reliant on your spouse contributions for your pension.  So why do you think there is an error ?

QrizB

GrandmaSkippy said:

... we emigrated in 1990 and I lived in Australia until returning in 2010. 
... they did not recognise my entire overseas work history, 

If you worked in Australia, do you get an Australian pension?