Paying PRSI while abroad?

richiee

I have a query regarding PRSI. I started out in the work force in 1998 and then became self employed in 2002 until the end of 2011. I had been paying tax and PRSI during these years. I ceased my business at the end of 2011 and I am now working in Australia. I intend to return to work home to work in the next few years. My question is, can I, or should I continue to pay PRSI while I am working and living abroad. Will it effect my pension in years to come if I miss out on paying PRSI for a few years while I'm away? I am currently paying a private pension here in Australia which is compulsory.

Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Richiee.

Mat the trasher

Anyone have any info on this? How many lapsed years can be paid?

srsly78

Read the section on voluntary contributions here: http://www.welfare.ie/en/Topics/PRSI/Pages/selfemployed.aspx

Shane732

Are you self employed in Australia?

Voluntary contributions is one route to consider.

We do have a number of bi-lateral agreements as well which you could look at.

Marcusm

THis is what you want, written in fairly user friendly language.

http://www.welfare.ie/en/publications/sw87/Pages/1WhatisthepurposeoftheAgreement.aspx

richiee

No. I'm not self employed here in Australia.