Individuals aged 65 years or over (and individuals who are permanently incapacitated by reason of mental or physical infirmity from maintaining themselves,) can claim a refund from DIRT where the income of the individual (inclusive of the deposit interest) is below the appropriate income exemption limit for tax purposes. In the 2007 tax year the exemption limit for a single person aged 65 or over is €19,000 per annum, and in the case of a married couple, the exemption limit is €38,000 (the equivalent limits for the 2006 tax year were €17,000 single/ €34,000 married). A partial refund may be due to such individuals whose income (inclusive of the deposit interest) does not greatly exceed the appropriate income exemption limit.
In the recent Budget I announced that the rules relating to such individuals are now being changed so that in future they may notify their financial institution of their status and receive the interest without deduction of DIRT. These changes are included in the 2007 Finance Bill and further details will be published by the Revenue Commissioners when the Bill is enacted.