National Insurance Contributions
For employees' NIC, see Employee Taxation page.

Self-employed people pay:

* weekly Class 2 contribution of £2.20pw, unless they claim exception or small earnings (below £4,635). Usually paid monthly by direct debit.

* Class 4 NIC at 8% of taxable profits between £5,225 and £34,840. Profits over £34,840 will be charged at 1%. This is assessed and paid with the self-assessment income tax on profits.

Class 3 voluntary NIC may be paid at £7.80 per week by someone who is not in work but who wishes to maintain state pension rights./TD>
 
Annual limits
Someone who is both employed and self-employed will pay Class 1, Class 2 and Class 4 NIC. It is possible to apply for deferment of Class 4 so that the Class 1 paid on earnings can be taken into account. Class 4 will then be charged at only 1%, and the overall liability will be settled at a later date.