Class 2 NICs Direct Debit

xkpa

HI there. I have gaps in my National Insurance contributions and I want to pay them, but I don't know the exact amount that I owe to HMRC, it is about 400ish pounds or something. I requested NICs statement from HMRC, but received an email that it could take several weeks to receive it and I need it now.

My plan was to setup Direct Debit with HMRC, so they will take the whole sum from my bank account, but I checked here (https://www.gov.uk/pay-class-2-national-insurance/direct-debit) and it states that I cannot set Direct Debit for Class 2 NICs anymore - is this some recent change?

My last letters from HMRC was dated 5 October 2013 and 29 March 2014 - should I expect the last letter from them (October 2014) anytime soon and just pay it with bank giro?

Thanks in advance, cheers