stamps? I need someone to explain it to me.

Apologies for the odd title but its accurate - I need someone to advise on PRSI Contributions or Stamps as I have known them in the following situation.

Partner has received redundancy and applied for carers allowance (not entitled to benefit) to care for a sick relative. while the application is taking its time what does she do while waiting with regard to ensuring her PRSI contributions are up to date?
It could take up to a year and I am terrified that it will impact the contributory pension down the line.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

If Carer's allowance is granted from the date of application, PRSI credits will be awarded from the start of the claim so will preserve the PRSI record.

and if not awarded?

maybe voluntary contributions could be made.

http://www.welfare.ie/EN/Topics/PRSI/Pages/volcons.aspx


Missing one years prsi in itself would not normally make much difference if years of contributions.

If not enough to qualify for a full pension, the next lower tier is only a €5 a week less than the full rate anyway.