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National Insurance explained

  • How National Insurance works and why National Insurance contributions vary
  • National Insurance and your pension entitlement
  • Special options for some married or widowed women

What's in this guide

How National Insurance works

Though it's linked to benefits, National Insurance is really just another tax on earnings

How much NI you pay

The National Insurance you pay depends on your employment status

Protecting your benefits

What happens if you have gaps in your NI record

What you'll get

Information on the benefits you're entitled to

Which? works for you