In this brief response to the proposal for temporary exit from employment, I question whether funding career breaks through state pension sacrifice is the best way to achieve the aim of allowing individuals more autonomy, choice and flexibility in their life course. I argue that this funding mechanism is socially-divisive, reinforcing the disadvantages already experienced by vulnerable groups in the population. In contrast, an alternative scheme – a lifelong Citizen’s Income – could achieve the desirable aims without the drawbacks.