Retirement resources for Ireland’s self-employed community
Some employees may qualify for My Future Fund. People who work for themselves can explore arrangements such as a PRSA, where eligible contributions may qualify for income-tax relief. Our guides explain the basics in plain English.
Who may be eligible in 2026?
Payment options depend on the provider. Contributions may be made regularly or as a one-off payment during the year.
Eligible contributions may qualify for relief at 20% or 40%, depending on your circumstances and the limits for your age.
Investment growth within a PRSA is generally not taxed each year, but the value of investments can go up or down.
Subject to the rules that apply to you, you may be able to take up to 25% as a lump sum, with the balance used to support retirement income.
Revenue sets age-based limits on the earnings that can qualify for pension tax relief. Use the calculator to see an indicative limit and an estimated contribution cost after relief.
exceeds your limit and is not eligible for relief this year.
This estimate uses Revenue’s 2026 age-related limits and excludes USC and PRSI. Confirm how the rules apply to you with Revenue or a suitably qualified adviser.
| Age | Max % of net relevant earnings | Max on €115,000 cap |
|---|---|---|
| Under 30 | 15% | €17,250 |
| 30–39 | 20% | €23,000 |
| 40–49 | 25% | €28,750 |
| 50–54 | 30% | €34,500 |
| 55–59 | 35% | €40,250 |
| 60 and over | 40% | €46,000 |
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In general, yes. If you earn a salary and also have income as a sole trader, you may be enrolled through your job and contribute to a PRSA based on your self-employed profits. The schemes work differently: My Future Fund contributions receive a state top-up rather than tax relief, while PRSA contributions may qualify for income tax relief. It is worth confirming how the limits apply to your circumstances with an adviser.
For a sole trader, this generally means taxable profit from your trade or profession after capital allowances and trading losses. Salary from a job without a separate pension may also count. Rental income, dividends and other investment income are excluded. Relief is calculated on earnings up to €115,000 per year.
You are not required to maintain regular PRSA payments. You can stop, reduce or pause contributions and resume them when your income improves. Your annual relief limit decreases if your profit falls. Contributions above the limit can generally be carried forward for a future claim.
Access is generally available from age 60, and benefits must usually be drawn by age 75. Earlier access is limited to certain circumstances, such as serious ill health. At retirement, you can generally take up to 25% as a lump sum; the first €200,000 of qualifying lump sums is tax-free over your lifetime. The balance may be transferred to an Approved Retirement Fund (ARF), used to buy an annuity or, in some cases, taken as taxable cash.
This material is general information about Irish rules in 2026, not individual advice. Your circumstances may differ; check with Revenue or a qualified financial adviser before acting.