Who is enrolled
The Department of Social Protection says automatic enrolment applies to employees aged from 23 to 60 who earn more than €20,000 a year and are not contributing to a qualifying pension or Personal Retirement Savings Account through payroll. The system started on 1 January 2026.
More than one job, fluctuating earnings or an existing pension can affect the record. Check the participant portal if the payslip treatment is unexpected.
How contributions work
For every €3 an employee contributes, the employer contributes €3 and the State adds €1, within the scheme’s earnings and contribution rules. Rates are scheduled to rise over time. Use the current official contribution table for payroll decisions rather than an old example.
There can be a processing interval between the payslip deduction and the amount appearing in the portal. The official guidance explains when to contact the scheme if it remains missing.
What to check
- Your name, PPS number and employment record match payroll.
- The deduction is labelled and based on the correct pensionable pay.
- An existing qualifying pension has been reported correctly.
- Employer and State amounts reach the participant account.
- You understand the opt-out, suspension and re-enrolment rules before acting.
Sources and review record
- Department of Social Protection: Auto-enrolment · accessed 11 July 2026.
- Department of Social Protection: Questions answered · accessed 11 July 2026.
This guide provides general information for the Republic of Ireland. Check the linked official guidance for your circumstances and current rules.