HMRC introduces faster National Insurance refunds

HMRC has introduced an automated payment process to speed up refunds for people who may have overpaid National Insurance contributions. The process has been in use since early summer, according to

Voluntary National Insurance contributions could be reformed

The government is considering changes to the voluntary National Insurance contributions (NICs) system following a call for evidence published earlier this year.

Voluntary NICs allow individuals to

Making the most of the Employment Allowance

The Employment Allowance can help eligible employers reduce their National Insurance costs by up to £10,500 each tax year. The allowance reduces an employer’s Class 1 National Insurance liability and

Don’t forget to pay your Class 1A NICs

Employers are reminded that Class 1A National Insurance contributions (NICs) for the 2025-26 tax year must be paid by 19 July 2026 (or 22 July 2026 if paying electronically) to avoid penalties. These

Understanding your National Insurance record

Your National Insurance record can be checked online to see what contributions and credits you have built up and whether you have any gaps that may affect your State Pension.

The record shows how

When to consider voluntary National Insurance

Many people are unaware that gaps in their National Insurance (NI) record can affect their entitlement to the State Pension and certain state benefits. In some cases, it may be worthwhile to consider

National Insurance liability on benefits in kind

National Insurance contributions that relate to employee benefits are known as Class 1A National Insurance contributions. Employers must pay these National Insurance contributions on most work-related

Self-employed National Insurance

Most self-employed people are required to pay Class 4 National Insurance contributions (NICs). Class 4 NICs are payable if their profits are £12,570 or more a year.

Class 4 NIC rates are currently

Filling in NIC contribution gaps

National Insurance credits can help qualifying applicants to fill contribution gaps in their National Insurance record. This can help taxpayers increase their number of qualifying National Insurance