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Pension Reform

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Reforms to the State Pension system in Northern Ireland have made it easier for more people to qualify for a full State Pension by making the system fairer for both men and women, and in particular, those with caring responsibilities.

On 6 April 2010, a number of changes were made to the current pension system:

  • Men and women reaching State Pension age will need just 30 years of National Insurance contributions to qualify for a full basic State Pension; this is in contrast to the 39 years for women and 44 years for men needed in the current system. For example, at present, a man with 30 qualifying years, is entitled to 69% of the basic State Pension, receiving £65.72 per week. However, on or after 6 April, 2010, a man reaching State Pension age with 30 qualifying years will be entitled to 100% of the basic State Pension, receiving £97.65 per week.
  • The State Pension age for women will gradually start to rise from 60 to 65 between 2010 and 2020, bringing it in line with that of men.
  • A new carers' credit will be introduced to help parents and carers build up qualifying years for State Pension whilst still undertaking their important caring responsibilities in the home.

Find out more about pensions on the opens link in new window NI Direct website

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Let's talk money 

Let's talk money publications

  • opens link in new window More money in your pocket booklet
    A guide to claiming benefits for people over pension age. (PDF 164KB)

    opens link in new window Pension Credit leaflet
    3 steps to find out if someone you know qualifies for Pension Credit. (PDF 105KB)


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