Yearly contracts and pension contributions.

[pingin]

In 1997 I got a job in a third-level institution, working on yearly contracts. I was lucky enough in 2003 to get a permanent pensionable post. However, they've calculated my pension contributions as starting from 2003. Am I entitled to claim anything for the previous six years?

 

[LDFerguson]

I'm assuming that the third-level institution's pension scheme didn't allow entry to yearly contract workers, so you only joined that pension scheme in 2003. I'm not sure I understand your question about whether or not you're entitled to claim anything for your contracting years.

If it's a superannuation scheme you may be able to buy back those years. Or you can contribute extra by way of Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) to supplement your benefits in the main pension scheme.

You would have been paying PRSI during 1997 - 2003 so that will count towards qualifying for the State Pension.