The Irish State Pension Explained

The Irish state pension (contributory) is the foundation of most retirement plans. But how much will you actually get?

Current Rates (2026)

Maximum Weekly Rate: €289.30

Maximum Annual Amount: €15,044

With Qualified Adult Increase

If you have a dependent spouse/partner under 66:

Weekly: +€193.90

Annual: +€10,083

Couple total (max): €25,127/year

Eligibility Requirements

To get the full state pension, you need:

**Age:** 66 (rising to 67 between 2026-2028)

**PRSI Contributions:** Started before age 56

**Yearly Average:** 48+ paid/credited contributions OR

**Total Contributions:** 2,080 contributions under the Total Contributions Approach (TCA)

The Yearly Average Method vs TCA

Ireland offers two calculation methods - you get the higher result:

Yearly Average Method:

Total contributions ÷ years = yearly average

48+ weeks average = full pension

20-47 weeks = proportional reduction

Total Contributions Approach (TCA):

2,080 contributions = full pension (40 years × 52 weeks)

Credits for homemakers and carers included

Coming into full effect

Common Pension Gaps

Many people don't get the full pension due to:

1. Time outside workforce - Caring, study, travel

2. Self-employment gaps - Some years without Class S

3. Part-time work - Below contribution threshold

4. Emigration - Years working abroad

How to Check Your Record

1. Visit welfare.ie

2. Request a contribution statement

3. Review your yearly averages

4. Identify any gaps

Strategies to Maximize Your Pension

If You're Still Working:

Ensure your employer is making PRSI contributions

Consider voluntary contributions for gap years

Keep records of all employment

If You're a Homemaker/Carer:

Apply for HomeCaring periods credits

These count towards TCA calculations

Up to 20 years can be credited

If You Worked Abroad:

Check bilateral agreements (EU, UK, USA, etc.)

Contributions may transfer or combine

Irish pensions can be paid worldwide

Planning Your Retirement Income

Don't rely solely on the state pension.

Even the full pension of €15,044/year is below the poverty line for most definitions of "comfortable" living.

Use the state pension as a foundation, then build on it with:

Occupational pensions

Personal pensions (PRSAs)

Investments and savings

Your Next Steps

1. Get your PRSI statement from welfare.ie

2. Calculate your expected state pension

3. Use our free quiz to see your total retirement picture

4. Identify gaps and create a plan to fill them

Want to see how the state pension fits into your overall retirement plan? [Try our free retirement calculator](/quiz).

State Pension Ireland 2026: What You'll Actually Get