Uk pension for someone with a low number of years NI contributions possible.

anotherquestion

Hi folks,

A question for some of the more knowledgeable people on here than me.

If someone worked in the UK for 5-6 years in 80's paid their Ni contributions in a salaried job, but then returned to Ireland to work, are those NI contributions basically lost and they are not allowed to top it up through voluntary payments to bring it to 10 years for the minimum UK state pension?

Thanks for any info.

molerat

Those years will not be lost, you can use your Irish pension, or any other EU pension, to meet the 10 years minimum for a pension and then receive the pro rated 5-6 years worth of UK pension.  It seems the rules are not finalised and anyone who is currently paying may be able to continue but not at the class 2 rate. The big change is for years 2026-27 onwards, you should still be able to pay the past 6 years 2020-26. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-voluntary-national-insurance-contributions-for-periods-spent-abroad/voluntary-national-insurance-contributions-for-periods-abroad-from-april-2026

Transitional arrangements

Further details and guidance will be published at a later date.