National Insurance

National Insurance is the government scheme to provide security for employees when they are sick, unemployed or retired. Anyone who works in the UK must have a National Insurance number.

Currently, for the first £105 earned each week there is no contribution. After this, you pay 11% on each additional £1 of weekly income – up to the limit of £770 p/week; 1% is then paid on earnings over this amount.

Most people brought up in the UK are automatically given a NI number when they reach the age of sixteen. If you are not a British citizen but are able to work in the UK for the duration of your studies, you can apply for an NI number via the Jobcentre Plus service. You must firstly get a job (with an offer in writing) and then should call 0845 600 0643 to make an appointment; they will tell you on the telephone when and where you appointment will be, plus what documentation you will need to take with you.

Further information can be found at:

www.dwp.gov.uk
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
www.hmrc.gov.uk

You can pick-up a leaflet with some more information on National Insurance at the jobshop@kent office on the Canterbury campus or by our noticeboards in the Pilkington Building, Medway.