I was led to believe they were, but have recently claimed for incapacity benefit as I am unable to work, my doctor said there would be no problem getting it. However, they have returned the claim saying I have not paid enough NI in the last 3 years (have been at home.) I spoke to someone today in the claims debt who said no, you are not credited at all, you have to pay voluntary contributions, therefore my record shows no payments. Got myself in a pickle here as I thought credits were paid (the bare mimimum) for pension purposes etc, when you were at home with children? I am a bit buggered as I can't get IB yet can't work. Living off my dh, which we have just about managed but will be struggling soon. any advice? Have also applied for DLA but it's very low for living costs.