• The State pension is currently approximately only one-third of average annual earnings.
  • The current rates of contributory State pension varies from €97.20 to €243.30 per week. An additional €10 per week is paid when you reach 80 years of age.
  • There are also additional payments available in certain cases where you care for dependent qualifying adults or children.
  • The contributory State pension is taxable.
  • To qualify for the State Pension you need to have been making PRSI contributions during your working life to age 66.
  • It is not means-tested.
  • In order to qualify for the contributory State pension, you must have started paying PRSI 10 years before reaching pension age.
  • If you do not qualify for a Contributory State pension, or if you only qualify for a partial pension, you can apply for the non-contributory State pension, which is means tested.

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