Donate

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

National insurance is a tax on your earnings. This guide covers some basic information about NIC.

Last reviewed 18 September 2023

What is national insurance ?

National insurance is a tax on your earnings that goes into an account 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 66 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)

Share

Printable version of this guide

Was this page helpful?

Tell us the problem

*Required

Thank you

Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more, please visit our contact us page.