An interesting article on the PRSI qualification rules for the state contributory pension. The new Total Contributions approach has still not been passed into law. Consequently, anyone that retired after 1st September 2012 will be assessed on both the existing averaging rule and the total contribution approach with the best outcome taken. This is important for anyone looking at their PRSI history to assess their entitlements, particularly if they are contemplating additional voluntary contributions and / or are approaching retirement age.