Irish Self-Employed Tax Calculator 2026
If you're a sole trader, freelancer, or contractor in Ireland, your tax bill includes income tax, USC, and Class S PRSI on your Schedule D net profit. Enter your net profit (after expenses) to see your full liability and net take-home — and your preliminary tax due if you provide last year's bill.
How is this calculated?
Composes the income-tax engine with the self-employed flag (which substitutes Earned Income credit for PAYE credit and uses Class S PRSI). USC and PRSI minimums apply. If prior-year liability is provided, also computes preliminary tax using the lower of 90% current / 100% prior rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Schedule D in Ireland?
Schedule D Cases I and II cover trade and professional income — i.e. profits from self-employment. It's distinct from Schedule E (employment income, where PAYE applies). You report Schedule D income on Form 11 by 31 October each year.
Do I pay PRSI as a sole trader?
Yes — Class S PRSI at 4% of your net profit, with a minimum annual contribution of €500. Class S gives access to: contributory State Pension, maternity / paternity / parent's benefit, adoptive benefit, and (since 2024) jobseeker's benefit for self-employed.
What's the difference between PAYE and earned income credits?
Both are now €1,950 in 2026. PAYE credit applies to employees only. Earned Income credit applies to self-employed people and 'directors who are not employees'. You get one or the other, not both. The credits were equalised over recent years to reduce the gap between the two.
How is preliminary tax handled?
Self-employed people pay preliminary tax on or before 31 October each year. The amount is the LOWER of: 90% of estimated current-year liability, 100% of prior-year liability, or 105% of pre-prior-year (direct-debit only). Underpayment can attract interest and a 5% surcharge.
What expenses can I deduct?
Most genuine business costs: materials, subcontractor fees, business rent, insurance, accountancy, marketing, mileage at Revenue rates, capital allowances on equipment. Personal expenses, food, normal commuting, and certain motor restrictions are NOT deductible. Keep records — Revenue can audit up to 4 prior years.
Last updated: May 2026 · Rates sourced from Revenue