National insurance contributions

[familyissues12345]

Hi all,

I've been thinking about my earnings recently and wondering about my NI contributions.

Looking at the government gateway website, I've made 24 years contribution, have one part year (only £30 to pay so will do that) and need another 10 years - I'm 43 currently.

I'm a low earner, in a lucky position to not need to earn a huge amount due to household income and it was our choice to have me at home as much as possible (without driving me nuts)

So I earn about £750 a month. I know I don't pay NI, and I no longer get credits from child benefit as my youngest is now 14.

I've been looking for extra work to bring me up to the point that I'd pay NI (unfortunately no scope to increase hours at work). However, I've just been reading about lower earnings limit, and that seems to imply I'll still get my NI credit, as I earn enough but not enough to pay. Does that sound right?

Anyone out there an NI expert?!

Thanks!

You do not pay National Insurance, but still qualify for certain benefits and the State Pension, if you’re an employee earning between £123 and £242 a week from one job.
Your contributions are treated as having been paid to protect your National Insurance record.
(from https://www.gov.uk/national-insurance)

£750 a month is £173 a week so you're fine. Just make sure your earnings don't drop below about £550/month (nb the amounts will increase gradually between now and your retirement age).

Fab thanks @AnotherEmma !