Considerations for class 2 contributions if retiring early

[poorrelative]

I still have 9 years of NI contributions before reaching the magic 35 for full UK state pension. Currently paying class 2 but considering early retirement in the next year or two. Once I stop working I then have to pay class 3. However, what if I continue to work part-time? I am considering 1 day a week which would be enough for the full 52 PRSI credits (5k per annum). Does anyone know whether the criteria for moving from class 2 to class 3 is simply based on PRSI record, i.e. if I still maintain 52 full credits. What if the PRSI record were maintained by AVC drawdown, would it still count as 'employment'?

 

[DannyBoyD]

I continue to work part-time

you can continue to pay class 2. As of now, theres no obligation to work full time.