Summary of Universal Social Charge Rates in 2024
The 2011 Budget in Ireland introduced a new tax on income called the Universal Social Charge (USC) which began in January 2011.
There were some small adjustments announced to the Universal Social Charge (USC) in Budget 2024
From Jan 1st 2024 the ceiling for the 2% rate of USC rose by €2,840 from €22,920 to €25,760.
The 4.5% rate of USC was cut by 0.5% to 4.0%. . This rate applies to income between €25,761 and €70,044
USC Rates 2024
| Income Level | USC Rate |
| The First €12,012 * | 0.5% |
| €12012 – €25,760 | 2% |
| €25,761 – €70,044 | 4% |
| €70,444 and over | 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 €1305 Universal Social Charge in 2024. (It was €1497 in 2023)
Reduced rates of USC apply to:
- People aged 70 or over whose total income for the year is €60,000 or less
- Medical card holders aged under 70 whose total income for the year is €60,000 or less.
| Reduced Rates of USC | |
|---|---|
| Rate | Income band |
| 0.5% | Income up to €12,012 |
| 2% | All income over €12,012 |
More details of Take Home Pay and Budget 2024
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