How are online payments allocated to a specific year?

Nine months ago I paid a voluntary Class 3 NIC for 2019-20. I now want to pay for 2020-21 and started to do so via the Pay now button under Pay online using the 18 digit reference number given to me last year. I know from the website the amount of the voluntary contribution needed to make up the shortfall, but there is no means of specifying, prior to making the payment, which year you are paying for. I am concerned that the amount could be allocated as partial payment for another year rather than full payment for the year I want to make up. Or even that the unallocated money goes into the ether! What would happen if I click on 'Approve this payment'? Is the 18 digit number I got last year for '19-20 valid for subsequent payments for different years? Or do I need once again to hang on the phone forever day after day to get new credentials?!

Hi peadar,
Assuming you are making a payment for the entire 2020-21 year and there are no NICs or credits already held,  the amount of Class 3 payable for that year is currently £795.60. 
As this is the only year that can currently be paid at that rate, if a payment for this amount was received onto a NI record where the 2020-21 year was completely blank, this is the year we would allocate it to.
The 18 digit reference number you were previously given was relevant to the previous payment and should not be used for subsequent years.
The alternative is to call the NI helpline on 0300 200 3500. Lines are open 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday.
Thank you. 

 

Thanks. You say calling the NI helpline is an alternative - what are the other alternatives, given that bank, telephone and online payment require an 18 digit Class 3 National Insurance reference number and my existing number shouldn't be used for subsequent years?

I made voluntary NICS by bank transfer for 4 years ( £824,20 each yr for 2019/20, 2018/19, 2017/18 and 2016/17) on 14th January 2023. Only three have been credited to my pension, the year 2016/17 has not been credited. It cannot have been credited to other years ( 2020/21 or 2021/22) as they paid by dd at a different cost. Future years from 22 were paid monthly by dd. Where has my money gone? I'm anxious to resolve this as I'm 66 next month. I cannot get through on the phone - just hang on and then get cut off!

Hi peadar

At present, the only way to pay online is using the reference number provided by calling the NI helpline on 0300 200 3500. Lines are open 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday.

If you still have a cheque book, have checked with DWP that the payment will increase your pension entitlement and know how much to pay, you can send in a cheque to – 

National Insurance Contributions & Employer Office
HM Revenue & Customs
BX5 5BD

Make the cheque payable to 'HM Revenue and Customs only'

Write your NINO on the back of the cheque and include a covering letter to advise which year(s) you are paying.

Thanks

 

Hi Barry Overington

Without being able to check your record I am unable to give a definitive reply.

I am afraid the only option is to contact the NI helpline on 0300 200 3500. Lines are open 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday.  Lines are usually less busy at the start of the day.

Thanks