Compare two salaries or job offers (2026)
Put two job offers side by side and see the take-home pay and pension contribution for each, after income tax, USC and PRSI.
Your own pension contribution comes off your pay for income tax only. An employer's contribution is not asked: it is not part of your take-home.
| Offer A | Offer B | Better | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Take-home a month | €2,950.85 | €3,207.80 | B |
| Take-home a year | €35,410.21 | €38,493.63 | B |
| Your pension contribution a year | €2,250.00 | €1,485.00 | A |
| Take-home + pension | €37,660.21 | €39,978.63 | B |
| Marginal rate | 27.3% | 47.2% | — |
Where each offer's money goes
What these figures are, and what they are not
Income tax is charged on your pay after any pension contribution: at the standard rate up to your standard rate cut-off point and at the higher rate above it, less your tax credits. USC is charged on your pay before the pension contribution, in its own bands. PRSI is charged week by week on your gross pay, at the rate in force on each pay day.
Common questions
Is a higher salary always better?
Not always. A higher salary pays more income tax, USC and PRSI on the difference, and a bigger pension contribution lowers your take-home while it builds your pension, so the table shows both.
How is income tax worked out in Ireland?
Your pay after any pension contribution is taxed at 20% up to your standard rate cut-off point and at 40% above it. For a single person in 2026 the cut-off point is €44,000. Your tax credits then come off the tax: €2,000 personal tax credit and up to €2,000 employee tax credit for a single person. Income tax cannot go below nil.
What is USC and who pays it?
The Universal Social Charge is charged on your gross pay, before any pension contribution, in bands from 0.50% to 8%. If your total income for the year is €13,000 or less you pay no USC at all, and above that every band applies from the first euro.
MyNetIncome gives estimates, not tax or financial advice. Figures follow Revenue's rules for 2026; your payslip can differ because of your tax credit certificate, your pay dates, week 53 or credits this page does not ask about. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Revenue.Estimates, not tax or financial advice. Your payslip can differ. Not affiliated with Revenue.