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Why carers need to take extra care of their pensions
Thinking about your pension is not normally at the top of anyone’s agenda until they come close to retirement, and this is no different for carers. However, caring for someone can have a devastating impact on your pension longer term and carers need to take extra care of their pensions as a result.
Many people are shocked to find out that you do not automatically receive a full basic State Pension, but that you must have made a certain amount of National Insurance (NI) contributions towards it throughout your working life. Contributions to the basic State Pension are made through paying NI or, if you are unable to do this because you are caring for children or for a disabled, ill or frail adult, then the state will credit your contributions for you. However, this only happens if you claim the right benefits and take the right action.
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State pension Q&A for carers
Caring can affect your entitlement to State Pension. read our questions and answers for carers about how to qualify for State Pensions. -
Advice for pensioners who are currently caring
If you're currently claiming a pension and caring there may be extra help you are entitled to. Read our advice for pensioners. -
5 steps to maximise your pension
If you are caring for someone you need to think about how it might affect your future pension provision. Read our quick 5-step guide to help you maximise your pension -
Carers Credits (changes from April 2010)
From April 2010 the State Pension age for women will start to rise from 60 to 65 between 2010 and 2020 (to be equal with men). There are also other significant changes that will really benefit carers.