Problem with paying voluntary NI contributions

george278

Have been trying to phone HMRC to get an 18-digit reference number so I pay a years’ worth of voluntary class 3 NI contributions. Have tried every phone option and the line goes dead on me.

These are the numbers I’ve tried are 0800 731 0181 and 0800 731 0175.

Anyone got any better numbers or suggestions where I can get this code from?

molerat

Those numbers are for the FPC, part of DWP.  HMRC can be contacted on 0300 200 3500.  Probably one of the worst times of the year to try and contact them.  Try just before 08.00.  You could always send a cheque in the post.

Marcon

george278 said:

Have been trying to phone HMRC to get an 18-digit reference number so I pay a years’ worth of voluntary class 3 NI contributions. Have tried every phone option and the line goes dead on me.

These are the numbers I’ve tried are 0800 731 0181 and 0800 731 0175.

Anyone got any better numbers or suggestions where I can get this code from?

You aren't alone - but I don't think you are ringing the correct numbers. See https://community.hmrc.gov.uk/customerforums/pt/14807abe-9d02-ec11-b76a-00155d9c67a7

'To obtain an 18 digit reference you would need to call the National Insurance Enquiries helpline on 0300 200 3500 (or +44 191 203 7010 if calling from overseas). The line is open Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm – closed Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.'

(there's a postal address towards the end of that thread, which might be a lot easier in the long run!).

george278

Finally got through on 0300 200 3500. I was on hold for 65 minutes before call answered. The guy was very helpful and sorted me out with the code number.
Why do they make it so hard for you to GIVE THEM money?

Pat38493

There used to be a “secret” web chat option where you can contact them on a web chat on the gov.uk web site - I have used it a couple of times - I think the last time was about a year ago.  The link to it is very hard to find on the website - I can try to look for it tomorrow. 

When I used that option I found I got a quick response each time.

george278

Pat38493 said:

There used to be a “secret” web chat option where you can contact them on a web chat on the gov.uk web site - I have used it a couple of times - I think the last time was about a year ago.  The link to it is very hard to find on the website - I can try to look for it tomorrow. 

When I used that option I found I got a quick response each time.

That seems like a much better option Pat. Yes, please post the link if you can find it.

t0rt0ise

george278 said:

Pat38493 said:

There used to be a “secret” web chat option where you can contact them on a web chat on the gov.uk web site - I have used it a couple of times - I think the last time was about a year ago.  The link to it is very hard to find on the website - I can try to look for it tomorrow. 

When I used that option I found I got a quick response each time.

That seems like a much better option Pat. Yes, please post the link if you can find it.

I believe it is what they call 'on hold' at the moment. I did stumble across it once and got my 18 digit number that way but the link is there no more.