Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
220. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of income tax paid by persons aged over 65 years of age in each of the years 2015 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24873/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra221. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of income tax paid in respect of occupational and other non-social protection pensions in each of the years 2015 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24874/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra222. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of income tax paid in respect of social protection pensions in each of the years 2015 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24875/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 220 to 222, inclusive, together.
In relation to [Question 24873/18], I am advised by Revenue that for 2015, the most recent year for which data are available, it is tentatively estimated that €1,340m in Income Tax was paid where the taxpayer (either partner in the case of jointly assessed couples) was aged over 65.
Regarding [Question 24874/18], I am advised by Revenue that it is tentatively estimated that individuals in receipt of occupational pensions (and not receiving or earning any other taxable income) contributed approximately €300m in Income Tax in 2015. Due to the manner in which data are recorded on Revenue systems, it is not possible to report on the tax paid by those in receipt of both occupational pensions and other sources of income. Nor can the tax paid on income from other, non-social welfare pensions be separately identified.
In relation to [Question 24875/18], I am advised by Revenue that income from social welfare pensions is not separately recorded on tax returns and is amalgamated with income from other sources in the calculation of tax liabilities. As such, it is not possible to report on the tax paid in respect of social protection pensions. In addition, it is important to note that while in general all income arising from social welfare pensions is liable to Income Tax (though not Universal Social Charge), in most cases an individual solely in receipt of a social welfare pension will be below the threshold to pay tax, after tax credits are taken into account.
