Irish pension rates for 2025
The amount of State Pension you receive in Ireland is determined by the type of pension you are eligible for. The two main types are the State Pension (Contributory) and the State Pension (Non-Contributory). The rates were increased in January 2025 as part of Budget 2025.
State Pension (Contributory) Rates (from January 2025):
- Personal Rate (under 80): €289.30 per week
- Personal Rate (aged 80 and over): €299.30 per week
- Increase for Qualified Adult (under 66): €192.70 per week
- Increase for Qualified Adult (aged 66 and over): €259.40 per week
State Pension (Non-Contributory) Rates (from January 2025):
- Personal Rate (under 80): €278.00 per week
- Personal Rate (aged 80 and over): €288.00 per week
- Increase for Qualified Adult (under 66): €183.60 per week
How your Contributory pension is calculated
For those reaching pension age in 2025 or later, the calculation for the State Pension (Contributory) is changing. The old Yearly Average method is being phased out over ten years in favour of the Total Contributions Approach (TCA). By 2034, all pensions will be calculated using only the TCA method.
The Total Contributions Approach (TCA): Under this method, the rate is based on your total number of Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) contributions. To qualify for the maximum rate, you need 2,080 contributions (equal to 40 years of employment). Reduced rates are paid for those with fewer contributions, down to a minimum of 520 contributions (10 years). The TCA calculation includes paid PRSI contributions, certain voluntary contributions, and periods of recognised caring.
Phasing in the TCA: During the transition period from 2025 to 2034, your pension rate is a combination of the old Yearly Average and the new TCA methods. For someone drawing their pension in 2025, the calculation is 90% based on the Yearly Average and 10% on the TCA.
Deferring your Contributory pension
For those born on or after January 1, 1958, there is an option to defer claiming the State Pension (Contributory) at age 66 for up to four years, until age 70. This can result in a higher weekly payment rate, as shown in the following table.
Contributory Pension Weekly Rates based on Deferral (2025)
| Age at Claim | Maximum Personal Rate (per week) | Max Increase for Qualified Adult (under 66) | Max Increase for Qualified Adult (66+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 66 | €289.30 | €192.70 | €259.40 |
| 67 | €302.90 | €201.80 | €271.60 |
| 68 | €317.90 | €211.80 | €285.10 |
| 69 | €334.10 | €222.60 | €299.60 |
| 70 | €351.80 | €234.30 | €315.40 |
Additional benefits for pensioners
In addition to the main pension payments, Irish pensioners may be entitled to several supplementary benefits. These are often means-tested or require specific circumstances.
- Household Benefits Package: Assists with the cost of utilities and includes a Free TV Licence.
- Fuel Allowance: A payment to help with heating costs during the winter season.
- Living Alone Increase: A supplementary payment for certain social welfare recipients who live alone.
- Free Travel Scheme: Allows free travel on public transport for all residents aged 66 and over.
Contributory vs. Non-Contributory: A comparison
Choosing or understanding your potential pension involves knowing the difference between the two main types. Here is a breakdown of their key features.
| Feature | State Pension (Contributory) | State Pension (Non-Contributory) |
|---|---|---|
| Basis for payment | Your Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) contributions throughout your working life. | Means-tested; based on your financial circumstances, for those who don't qualify for the Contributory pension. |
| Means test | Not means-tested. Your income and assets are not assessed. | Subject to a means test. Income and assets are assessed to determine eligibility and rate. |
| Eligibility | Requires a minimum of 520 full-rate PRSI contributions. Maximum rate requires 2,080 contributions under the new system. | Must be aged 66 or over and habitually resident in Ireland. No PRSI contribution requirement. |
| Residency | Can be claimed even if you live abroad, provided you meet the PRSI contribution rules. | Must be habitually resident in Ireland to continue receiving the payment. |
| Maximum weekly rate (2025) | €289.30 (under 80). | €278.00 (under 80). |
| Working | Can be received alongside other income, including employment and private pensions. | Your income is assessed and may affect your payment rate. You can earn up to €200 per week from employment without it affecting your pension. |
Conclusion
Understanding how much is the Irish pension is a vital part of planning for retirement. The current maximum rates for 2025 are €289.30 per week for the State Pension (Contributory) and €278.00 per week for the State Pension (Non-Contributory), with a new calculation method being phased in based on total career contributions. Eligibility depends on either your PRSI record or a means test. It is crucial to determine which category you fall into and to check for any additional benefits you may be entitled to based on your personal circumstances. For the most accurate information regarding your specific situation, visiting the Citizens Information website or consulting a financial advisor is recommended.
Visit Citizens Information for further details on Irish State Pensions.
