Summary of USC Rates in 2023
There was a very small adjustment announced to the Universal Social Charge (USC) in Budget 2023
In 2023 the USC threshold was raised in line with the increase to the minimum wage. The ceiling of the 2% USC band increased by €1,625 to €22,920 from Jan 1st 2023.
Summary of USC Rates in 2023
- €0 – €12,012 0.5%
- €12,012 – €22,290 2%
- €22,290.01 – €70,044 4.5%
- €70,044 plus 8%
Self -employed workers with an income over €100,000 : have a 3% surcharge (so they pay 11% USC)
(People with Income under €13000 are exempt from USC)
An example: Someone earning €50,000 per year will pay the €1497 Universal Social Charge in 2023.
- This person would have paid a total USC of €1,537 in 2022. So there will be a reduction of €40
More details of Take Home Pay and Budget 2023
Reduced USC Rates 2023
Reduced rates of USC apply to some people who:
- are aged 70 or older with income of €60000 or less
- or
- hold a full Medical Card with income of €60000 or less
The lower rates are :
- 0.5% on the first €12,012
- 2% on the balance
The reduced rates apply for the whole year when you reach the age of 70 and your total income is €60,000 or less.
If you hold a medical card you should tell Revenue to ensure you are on the reduced rate.
If your income is more than €60,000, the standard rates of USC apply to your full income.
Universal Social Charge (USC) began in January 2011. It was introduced in the 2011 Budget – this was the last Budget of the Fianna Fail/ Green coalition.
More here about the History of the USC in Ireland