National Insurance Credits

National Insurance Credits can help you fulfill the N.I requirements for contributory benefits, such as state retirement pension.

Credits for Universal Credit: a class 3 credit is awarded automatically for each week you are on UC. They help to meet the contribution conditions for Widowed Parents’ Allowance and state pension.

Carer Credit: a class 3 credit is awarded for each week in which you care for someone for at least 20 hours and that person is entitled to a qualifying benefit or a decision maker decides that the level of care given is appropriate. The class 3 credit can help you to meet the contribution conditions for Widowed Parents’ Allowance and state pension.

You must apply for Carers Credit. It is not paid automatically.

Credits for Carers Allowance: If you receive Carers Allowance, you will be credited with earnings equal to lower earnings limit for each week you receive CA. These credits help you to meet the contribution conditions for all the contributory benefits, including state pension, except Bereavement Support Payment. They are paid automatically.

To claim Carers Credit, phone 0800 731 0297.

Textphone 0800 731 0371

For a retirement pension forecast go to: www.gov.uk/check-state-pension