Anyone continuing to pay their NI contributions whilst not in paid employment?

[PuffTheMagicDragon]

I've had a letter about this from the Department of Work and Pensions, saying that my state pension may be reduced if I don't keep the contributions up whilst I am at home full time with my children.

I'm just wondering if anyone is keeping up their payments and if so how much they are each month.

OMG WHY???? I thought the govt. paid it for you?????

I thought you didn't have to worry about it while you were in receipt of Child Benefit.

I missed almost 4 years of contributions when I was living abroad, but when I researched it, it seemed that I was allowed closer to 10 years off without it affecting the pension.

I always thought this covered women at home bringing up children under 16yrs (but have also had my doubts). Await others thoughts with interest.

Puff you should get Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) if you are in receipt of child benefit - which credits you with contributions

aha - butterflymum has got there before me

Thanks folks, I went into a blind panic when I saw suggested payment of "shortfall" of £360 for the tax year 2002/3!

The HRP reduces the number of qualifying years you need for a full basic state pension by up to 50% apparently and if you were awarded child benefit and if you are not working and your wages are less than £75 a week, HRP covers you.

I've also rung the Inland Revenue on 0845 3000168 for what they call a "pension forecast", just to make sure I am still on track for the full state pension.