Self Employed ceasing during the tax year - Class 2 NIC Tax Credits

Hi, I am self employed and in the 2023/24 tax year I ceased working on 31/01/2024. My understanding is that the credits work on a weekly basis and a qualifying year would be 52 weeks of Class 2 NIC. But as I have ceased part way during the tax year can I pay voluntary Class 2 NIC for February and March? Or would I pay voluntary Class 3 NIC for February and March?

Hi Amandeep Toor,

Your liability to pay Class 2 NICs ends when you cease self-employment, you can choose to pay voluntary Class 3 NICs to make the 2023-24 a qualifying year for state pension purposes.
However, I would advise that you contact the Future Pension Centre (FPC) on 0800 731 0175 to ensure that paying voluntary Class 3 NICs is beneficial.
If after speaking to FPC you choose to pay voluntary Class 3 NICs you can contact the NI Helpline on 0300 200 3500 who will advise how to make a payment.
Thank you.