(5) What You Need to Know About USC – The Universal Social Charge
The Universal Social Charge (USC) was originally introduced as a temporary measure in 2011 but continues to apply today. Essentially, this is an additional tax on income which is payable by everyone whose annual income exceeds €13,000.
Employers must deduct USC on a weekly or monthly basis via payroll and pay it to Revenue on behalf of their employees.
The standard USC rates and thresholds for 2023 as set out on the Revenue website are as follows:
Although USC is a universal tax, some types of income (such as certain types of Social Welfare benefit) are exempt. You can find details of these exemptions on the Revenue website.
Need more information on USC or help with operating your payroll? Contact GroForth for details of our payroll services.
