NI contributions for years when too unwell to work

A few years ago I fell ill (it took until now for effective treatment and during that time it was uncertain if I would survive) had to stop work and move in with relatives. For those years I did not claim any of the benefits I would have been entitled to (though I was being signed off work by my GP). Looking at my pension forecast those years will make a difference and I will have to try to make up those credits through voluntary contribution (at the moment I am severely disabled). If I had claimed benefits NI credits would have covered those years. Is there any kind of special provision for this situation?

If there is no online answer to this, which HMRC phone line would help with this?

Hi,

If you have not worked or claimed any benefits with the department for work and pensions in this period, call DWP regarding that time first. Once you have spoken to DWP you can write into HMRC at the address below with any supporting documentation regarding the time you were unwell including any paid/benefit carers involved. You will still have the option to pay voluntary National Insurance to increase your pension entitlement.

Department for Work and Pensions main benefit line
Number - 0800 055 6688
Overseas - +44 (0) 0191 218 7652
Open - 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday for overseas calls

HMRC address:
NIC & EO
HMRC
BX9 1AN

Thank you.

Thank you. Looking at my pension record I am still allowed to pay voluntary NI contributions for the years missed. Would there be any advantage of writing to the DWP in this regard (is there any way in which the recording of incapacity would change or waive the amounts of national insurance contributions?).

Hi felicity1

If you are medically unfit for work, you can contact the DWP to make a claim for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).  
Even if you are not entitled to any money, you may still be entitled to NI credits for a period when you have medical certification to confirm you cannot work.  
I am unsure if a claim to NI credits for this reason can be backdated, however this is entirely within the remit of DWP rather than HMRC.

For more help, I suggest you call the ESA contact centre on 0800 055 6688.

Regards your second question, broadly speaking you can pay any shortfalls from 2006-07 onwards at the Class 3 rate.
You will need to speak to Future pensions helpline on 0800 731 0175  (8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday) to see what shortfalls you have and how paying them would increase your pension.
Having spoken to them, if you wish to make payment , they can transfer you to HMRC who will give payment details.

Thanks