AIBU to get so worked up over a National insurance number?

[Kiera66]

I recently started working in the Uk and I applied for a NI number through my employer. This was over 6 weeks ago.

I was told that since I have applied through my employer I wouldn't be called for an interview. After weeks of waiting, I finally got a letter from jobcentre plus. I assumed that it would have my NI number on it, but it is an invitation letter for an interview.

Is this a bad thing? Do I need to worry? If they call you for an interview, does that mean that there is an issue with the application? I have no idea how this whole process works, but I'm quite overwhelmed by it. :(

I sort of assumed that getting an NI number was a given, but the letter states that they will "decide whether to give me a NI number". This terrifies me and I've now imagined all sorts of scenarios in my head where I am refused the NI number.

Could someone explain the reasons why somebody's NI number application would be refused?

I have no criminal record and I have permission to live and work in the UK. Do they check for other things as well? Is it like a check for defaults (credit check)?

I know I'm getting very worked up about this but this job means so much to me and I don't want anything to jeopardise it.

The main purpose of the interview is to check your identity/ address etc. The national insurance number is simply the reference number used to access the benefits and tax system in the UK. It is important that it is correct, because the national insurance you pay is then credited to your account and you will start to accrue entitlement to State Pension and other national insurance benefits. When you start working and paying national insurance in the Uk, you start to pay into state pension and if you return to your home country, if there is a reciprocal arrangement with the UK, you can transfer credits towards a pension there, for example.

Generally access to the benefits system is by phone or email (except for jobseekers who are seen face to face), so a NI number interview may be the only time you are ever seen and your identity verified. It isn't anything sinister at all. They won't do a credit check, but they will check for example that you are the person on your passport - by looking at you and your passport photo. It actually safeguards you from people using your identity to claim benefits, sometimes many years later.

Oh I see. That actually makes a lot of sense. Thanks for explaining.

One would imagine though that they would then want to verify the identity of every applicant, and not just some of them.