Auto-enrolment
What is auto-enrolment?
Starting from January 1, in 2026 a new pension scheme, the auto-enrolment pension scheme called My Future Fund begins in Ireland. It is run by a new organisation called the National Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Authority, overseen by the Pensions Authority.
Under the scheme, you, your employer and the Government will all pay money into your pension pot, which will move with you between jobs. If you are an employee aged between 23 to 60, earning €20,000 or more per year, and you are not already paying into a work pension, you will be signed up automatically. You do not need to do anything to join. You’ll receive money from auto-enrolment on top of the State Pension. You will have easy access to all your information online at Gov.ie.
What does it mean for you?
You, your employer and the Government will all pay a certain amount into My Future Fund.
- You will receive money from auto-enrolment on top of the State Pension
- Your pension pot will move with you between jobs
- You will have easy access to your information through an online portal
You can learn more on Gov.ie.
Frequently asked questions about auto-enrolment
Can you opt out of the auto-enrolment pension scheme?
Yes, you can choose to opt out of the auto-enrolment scheme after a minimum period of participation (usually after six months). If you opt out, the money you have given will be refunded, but employer and State contributions will remain in your pension pot.
If you opt out, you will be automatically enrolled again after a certain time (for example, after two years), unless you no longer qualify (such as if you have left employment, are under 23 or over 60, or are now paying into another pension through payroll).
This rule is there to encourage long-term pension saving by giving people regular chances to join the scheme, even if they previously opted out.
What if you already have a pension?
If you and your employer are already making pension contributions through your payroll, you will not be enrolled in the auto-enrolment scheme. The scheme is designed for employees who do not have a supplementary pension.
What happens if you change jobs?
Your auto-enrolment pension pot will move with you between jobs, so you can continue building your retirement savings without interruption.
How much will you and your employer contribute?
Both you and your employer will make contributions, and the State will also add to your pension pot. The exact rates will be set by the scheme and may increase over time.
