National insurance contributions (NIC) - What is national insurance ?

National insurance is a tax on your earnings that goes into the National Insurance Fund which pays for various benefits. This guide covers some basic information about NIC.

What is national insurance ?

National insurance is a tax on your earnings that goes into the National Insurance Fund which pays for various benefits. This guide covers some basic information about NIC.

Applies to: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Age Rules: You pay national insurance contributions between the ages of 16 and state pension age on earnings but not pensions. After state pension age, even if you have a job you do not need to pay any more contributions.

Which Agency: National Insurance Contributions Office of HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)

Reviewed: August 2017

Next What is a national insurance number?

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