This item from the BBC

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/5301710.stm

Makes it look as though the new proposals for UK pensions will go through. If so then those reaching 65 after 2010 will only need 30 years of contributions to get 100% pension.

If you have paid more than 30 years, even if voluntary contributions, then tough luck as no refunds. - that's me!

Just as well,as I stopped paying anything to the Brit Govt. 15 years ago.

I got buffaloes instead.

Cheers

Normally when these changes are made there are transitional arrangments. For example, the reduction to 30 years contribution may only apply to people under 30 when the new legistation come into force. Until the detailed rules are published, there is no way of knowing whether there is any benefit in making contributions now.

jbaldwin - for once I think your fears are wrong. Having read the white paper it seems it will come in immediately for everyone who has not yet retired.

If, however, you have retired by 2010 then the old rules seem to apply.

But I could be wrong ................

As an extra people might be aware that unemployed men aged 60-65 get their contributions credited for free (if in the UK). Well this will also apply to women as their retirement age increases.

Any way you can check on the Internet how many years you have contributed? I have been wondering about this one for a while since I have been in and out of employment what with living in LOS and working in other countries.

MaiChai - Almost.

You can register at https://secure.thepensionservice.gov.uk/sta...ensionforecast/

but they then send you a number to sign on with, and the last time I registered they would only send to a UK address.

Still if someone will e-mail you the code then you're OK!