Effective Dates: 01/12/2023 - Present Previous | Next

TN 4 (01-23)

GN 01719.015 Benefits, Coverage, and Contributions under the United Kingdom (U.K.) System

A. Overview of the U.K. social security system

The U.K. social security system, known as National Insurance, provides a wide range of benefits including:

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    old-age;

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    survivors; and

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    disability benefits.

B. Worker contributions

1. Compulsory contributions

U.K. social security covers residents aged 16 or older who earn above a specified income for employees or profit for self-employed persons. The National Insurance specifies the income and profit thresholds. Covered employees and their employers, as well as covered self-employed persons, are subject to compulsory contributions.

2. Voluntary contributions

Workers with gaps in their National Insurance record may pay voluntary contributions if they meet eligibility requirements set by National Insurance.

3. Assigned contributions

People who cannot work, are unemployed, or caring for someone full time may be eligible for National Insurance credits.

To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0201719015
GN 01719.015 - Benefits, Coverage, and Contributions under the United Kingdom (U.K.) System - 01/12/2023
Batch run: 01/12/2023
Rev:01/12/2023