ESA for to receive NI credits for a state pension

Rebeccajane1984

Am I eligible to claim new style ESA?

I do not have enough NI contributions in the last years due to ill health and part time working? But wondering if I can claim just for the NI credits towards by pension. I am 45 at present and on HR PIP in both elements due to my kidney illness.

Also would any private pension payments have an effect in the future when I am 55?

Rachel_Scope

Hi @Rebeccajane1984 and welcome to the community. If you don't have enough NI contributions then you won't be eligible for new style ESA.

You may be able to get National Insurance credits if you’re not paying National Insurance, for example when you’re claiming benefits because you’re ill or unemployed. Here are the eligibility rules for National Insurance credits https://www.gov.uk/national-insurance-credits/eligibility .

Do you claim Universal Credit? That isn't dependent on NI contributions.

I'm not sure if I've understood the last question properly so please let me know. Private pension payments don't affect NI.

flour

@Rebeccajane1984

Welcome to the forum!

@Rachel_Scope has given you some good advice but you're already on the right track.

If you want to get NI credits you should claim New Style ESA - you can also back date your claim by 13 weeks (to before April to get the credits for the full tax year).

Additionally, for additional income you should really speak to a benefits expert . You can call Citizens Advice Help to Claim Helpline from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday: 0800 144 8 444

Anyone whose not on benefits (like you) can call and they can run through your circumstances and tell you what you can as far as Universal Credit and anything else - you can also ask them about New Style ESA for NI Credits on the call at the end.

They can also give you the telephone for your local office to see if you can chat to them if you need extra help (though you may have to wait for an appointment).

I hope this helps?