Letter: Problem with NI contributions needs to be addressed

In some cases, it is possible to get a "credit" for a period without paying anything.

There is often a gap in people’s contributions which can be filled by taking action after the event. One obvious one is where people have not been working for pay because they are bringing up children.

This can apply to husbands and grandparents, especially if no Child Benefit has been paid. There are times when it is wise to sign on as unemployed just to get the National Insurance Credit added to your record. Jobseekers Allowance is not always paid.

I did this personally some years ago and now get the benefit of a full State Retirement Pension.

Unfortunately, it does not appear to be possible to deal with this matter by Royal Mail and you have to use the "gov.uk" website.

Sometimes it is necessary to telephone an office to register your circumstances for future reference. As is so often the case, there are backlogs at various government departments. There is an important deadline that is coming up on April 5 with the new Tax Year. Clearly prompt action is needed!

I did discover that it is still possible to claim Pension Credit by Royal Mail without using a computer. Try FREEPOST DWP PENSIONS SERVICE 3.

This matters where the Winter Fuel Payment has been withdrawn from people.

Paul Gibbons

Alfreton