Do I need to pay NI contributions if I retire early?

I am 64 years of age (b. 1959) and thinking of taking early retirement when I reach 65 years old. One year earlier than my state retirement age of 66 years. Can you please confirm whether I would be required to pay NI contributions if I did not take up any further employment after I had taken early retirement. I am not self-employed. Thanks in advance.

Hi Ray Everingham,

Depending on how many qualifying tax years that you have in your working life you may need to consider paying voluntary National Insurance contributions if you retire early.  
To check this may I suggest that you contact the Future Pension Centre (Application for a State Pension forecast) and they will be able to advise if you already have a full pension entitlement or not.  
If you have a Personal Tax Account (PTA) you will be able to find the same information, if you do not have a PTA then you may wish to set one up Personal tax account: sign in or set up

Thank you.