NIM34040 | Special cases: Volunteer Development Workers: Specific provisions relating to the payment of the special rate of Class 2 NIC: Rate of NIC and benefit/pension entitlement

Regulation 152(b) Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001

Regulation 10C(5) and (6) Social Security Benefit (Persons Abroad) Regulations 1975

A volunteer development worker does not pay the “standard” rate of Class 2 NIC (NIM20000 onwards (Class 2 liability)); they pay a special rate.

The weekly rate is calculated as 5% of the weekly lower earnings limit for the week for which the NIC is being paid. For example, the rate of NIC for the 2018/19 tax year is £5.80. This amount is 5% of £116.00, the weekly lower earnings limit for that year.

Rates of the NIC for years prior to 2018/19 should be held locally. If they are not and you need details, contact International Caseworker, PT Operations North East England, HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1AN. (This content has been withheld because of exemptions in the Freedom of Information Act 2000)

The special rate of Class 2 NIC counts towards the following benefits:

• State Pension

• bereavement support payment

• contributions-based jobseeker’s allowance

• contributions-based employment and support allowance.

A volunteer development worker may also be entitled to industrial injuries benefit.Providing:

• the accident arises out of, or in the course of, the employment; or

• the disease is contracted as a result of the employment,

any benefit will be payable from the date of their return to Great Britain, eventhough:

• the accident happened abroad; or

• the disease was contracted abroad.