Career break 3 months and stamps/credit query

Dr Strange

Hi,

I was wondering if someone could answer a couple of questions, please.

I am employed by a third-level institution and have applied for a career break to carry out a 3-months research project in another European country.

The career break is non-pensionable as it is not for education or family reasons and I will not receive a salary during that time. I will not receive a salary in the other European country either but have a small research grant towards subsistence (2000 Euro total for a 3 months stay). I am actually paying to be able to do this research out of my own pocket.

Now, I am just wondering if it would be possible to pay the PRSI for the 3 months directly to the Revenue so I don't lose 3 months worth of stamps (a1?) or will I not require those but get a tax credit instead?

Thanks for any help.

Dr Strange

Anybody? I really have no idea how these things work as I never had to take a career break before.

relax carry on

Preusse wrote: »

Anybody? I really have no idea how these things work as I never had to take a career break before.

As PRSI isn't a tax and not really a Revenue issue, I would say the links below might be your best bet regarding your PRSI query.

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

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

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

allthedoyles

I cannot see any advantage in contributing during this career break .

As long as you still have 39 contributions in a relevant tax year , you will qualify for applicable benefits .

Anyway , I don't think its possible to receive an A1 contribution , unless you are in insurable employment .

You should talk to your local SW office as you are entitled to sign for voluntary contributions during the 3 months of non-earnings .