What is the State Pension?
State Pension (Contributory)
The State Pension (Contributory) is paid to people who have, throughout their working life, paid enough Irish social insurance contributions. Most employers and employees over 16 years of age pay social insurance contributions. It is not means-tested. Although the rules regarding your social insurance contributions are wide ranging and complex, in general, you need to:
- Have paid social insurance contributions before a certain age.
- Have a certain number of social insurance contributions paid, and
- Have a certain average number paid over the years since you first started to pay.
The contributory pension is currently paid from age 66. However it is due to increase to age 67 in 2021 and to 68 in 2028.
In general you should apply for a State Pension (Contributory) if you have ever worked and had any contributions paid at any time.
State Pension (non-contributory)
The State Pension (non-Contributory) is paid to people from the age of 66 who do not qualify for the state pension (contributory). The basic rate is €219 per week. In order to qualify you need to pass a means test and meet the Habitual residence Condition.
Detailed information about State Pension eligibility can be found on citizensinformation.ie