Budget 2011 - New Universal Social Charge

For Irish payroll the new Universal Social Charge is a combination of the old Income Levy and the Health Levy.  The Universal Social Charge effective 1 January 2011, is payable on Gross Income before any
relief for Pension Contributions, Capital Allowances or Losses. All individuals are liable to pay the Universal Social Charge, if their gross income exceeds the threshold of €4,004 per annum. Medical card holders are not exempt from the Universal Social Charge.

The band and rates for Universal Social Charge are

Persons under the age of 70

• 0% < €4,004
• 2% €0 to €10,036
• 4% €10,037 to €16,016
• 7% > €16,016

Persons aged 70 or over

• 0% < €4,004
• 2% €0 to €10,036
• 4% > €10,037

Revenue Universal Social Charge FAQ's