NICs and State Pension.

I’m self employed, just started getting state pension a few months ago. It’s £209.44 which is reduced as I opted out of SERPs years ago when I was paye. Prior to my pension, the forecast said the most I could get was £215 pw. I thought this was because I had a few years of such low income, I didn’t pay NICs, so I sent a payment in June of £163 to HMRC. When I called the pension line, they couldn’t see this payment anywhere. I confirmed payment in June, but I’d sent it to HMRc Cumbernauld ( apparently this was wrong). The agent told me to ask for an IPP form to get it allocated correctly but I have no idea how to go about this, In addition, HMRC have sent me a tax calculation for 2023-2024 and it includes a payment of £179.40 for NICs I need to know who I can write or speak to that can confirm whether the £163 and £179.40 will make a difference to my pension amount. If not, can I get the £163 back and not pay the £179 ? I’m struggling online to find who to actually talk to.

Hi,
An advisor on our National Insurance team will be able to check your records and help you with your query about the payment.
National Insurance: general enquiries
With regards to your query about whether these payments will make a difference to your pension, you will need to contact the Department of Work and Pensions.
Contact the Future Pension Centre
Thank you.