DLA to PIP

Worriedsick wrote: I've been receiving DLA for many years - around 15 - but because our household income is too much I don't actually get any money but they do pay my contributions which is obviously very useful for my pension when I get there in 7 years time. I need 2 more years of contributions before I get to the 35 years of contributions necessary for a full state pension - will someone in my position need to transfer to PIP or will they leave me on DLA for the 2 years and then just stop it? Or what will happen?

I think you are confusing DLA and ESA, DLA is unaffected by household income and does not pay NI Credits.

Your DLA will be transferred to PIP as I am guessing you were under the age of 65 on 8 April 2013, invitations are being made at random and it will take at least three years to move everybody across.

On the assumption that you are receiving ESA, you will continue to receive NI Credits that count towards a full State Pension as long as you continue to meet the criteria for an award, you should expect to be re-assessed at some point, but I cannot predict whem, you can contact the DWP and they may be able to tell when this will happen.

Gordon

Worriedsick wrote: Sorry - it's Incapacity Benefit I'm on not ESA or DLA.

OK, the DWP are still moving IB claimants to ESA, the intention was always to leave those receiving NI Credits only until last and there was an expectation that those approaching retirement would be left on IB until they reach State Retirement Age.

You problem is that you may be too far away from retirement to avoid a transfer and if you are moved across then you will only retain your right to NI Credits if you qualify for an award of ESA.

Gordon