Class 2 vs Class 3 NI
 

So

Been playing ring a round the phones with HRMC and sat with multiple windows going doing internet searchs.

My wife and I have decided to pay the voluntary contributions to NI to top up the UK pensions but my question is that as my wife is not working right now in Canada one website says she has to pay class 3 but then another site says that if you are caring for children under 12 or getting child benefit (both of which she is doing right now) then that year qualifies.

The difference is Class 2 at 2.58 a week and class 3 at 13.56 a week (numbers by memory so may be a few pence out). But from what I can see class 2 is cheaper and gives more benefits????

So my question is what did other people do? I am working so its a clear cut class 2 but if the OH is getting child benefit and caring doe she go class 3 or class 2?

Thanks in advance UKCANUCK

Re: Class 2 vs Class 3 NI
 

I'm not clear either but the HMRC publication seems to indicate Class 3: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/pdfs/nico/ni38.pdf

It mentions nothing about any exemption if you are caring for children or receiving benefits, and I assume those are Canadian benefits anyway.

I'd contact them in Newcastle and ask. +44 191 203 7010.