PRSI Class S Query

Due to being in receipt of Illness benefit, I received 52 credited contributions in 2010 but I also paid €253 in PRSI in respect of a small income from bank deposits and share dividends. I understand that this gives me some Class S contributions. My question is: are these Class S contributions of any benefit to me - or is there an upper limit of 52 contributions per year? Many Thanks.....

Yes indeed 52 contributions/credits is the maximum that can be awarded in any year.

Class S covers only Pension, Bereavement grant and Maternity Benefit, and is paid by people who have income other than PAYE of more than 3,174