National Contributions/Credits and ESA

izzy wrote:

Gordon,
My son gets Income related ESA and is in the support group, his award letter also states that he will be credited with NI contributions whilst claiming ESA.This letter is dated 11/11/11.

I can't find a definitive answer in either direction. I'll see if I can find out tomorrow and let people know.

Gordon

I've contacted the National Insurance Helpline and they have confirmed that NI Credits are paid for both ESA(CB) and ESA(IR).

I'd also like to clear up some terminlogy that I know I have been struggling with and suspect that many members have as well.

National Insurance Contributions
NI Contributions can only be earned through a person being employed or being self-employed (and paying for the Contributions).

NI Contributions are required to satisfy the First Condition for a contribution based benefit such as ESA(CB) and can be used to satisfy the Second Condition.

National Insurance Credits
NI Credits can be earned as a result of receiving a qualifying benefit such as ESA, IB or Carers Allowance.

NI Credits can only be used to satisfy the Second Condition for a contribution based benefit.

Hope this explains things better and thanks to Izzy for picking up the error regarding ESA.

Gordon