New Investment Account
What do we know about the Investment Account so far?
The Government plans to introduce a new investment account to make investing simpler and more accessible for people in Ireland.
Some important details have not yet been confirmed. These include the tax rate, the tax-free threshold and the maximum amount you can contribute each year. The Government expects to announce these details as part of Budget 2027.
What is the new Investment Account?
The new investment account will allow you to hold a range of investments in one place, with a simpler approach to tax. Depending on your provider, you may be able to invest in:
- Shares
- Bonds
- Investment funds
- Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
- Insurance based investment products
Higher-risk or more complex products, such as derivatives and crypto assets, will not be available through the account. The account is designed for investing rather than saving. You will not be able to use it as a savings account or keep money permanently in cash within the account.
Who can open a new Investment Account?
Under the current proposals, you can open an account if you:
- Are aged 18 or over
- Are an Irish tax resident
- Have a Personal Public Service Number (PPSN)
Initially, you will only be able to have one investment account.
Who will provide the new Investment Account?
The accounts will be offered by regulated financial services providers that meet certain requirements. These may include:
- Investment firms
- Fund managers
- Life Insurance companies
- Credit institutions/ banks
- Certain trading platforms
Some providers based elsewhere in the European Economic Area (EEA) may also be able to offer the accounts in Ireland.
The investments available and the fees charged may vary between providers. Before choosing a provider, compare:
- The investment options available
- The fees and charges
- Any other features that are important to you
How much can I put into the new Investment Account?
There will be no minimum amount that you must contribute each year. However, there will be a limit on the amount you can contribute annually. The Government has not yet announced what this limit will be. It is expected to be confirmed as part of Budget 2027.
How will the new Investment Account be taxed?
The new account will have a simplified tax structure. A tax-free threshold will apply.
If the value of your account is below the tax-free threshold during the relevant tax period, you will not pay tax on the account. If the average value of your account is above the threshold, a flat rate of tax will apply to the amount above it.
The Government has not yet announced the tax-free threshold or the tax rate. These details are expected to be confirmed as part of Budget 2027.
Unlike most existing investment products, the tax will be based on the value of the investments held in the account rather than on any gain or profit you make.
Your provider will calculate, report and pay any tax due to Revenue on your behalf. This means you will not need to calculate or pay the tax yourself.
Current tax rules that would normally apply to investments held outside the account, including deemed disposal, will not apply.
Can I take my money out?
Yes. Under the current proposals, there will be no minimum holding period or lock-in period. However, you may get back less than you originally invested. The value of investments can rise and fall.
This means the amount available when you withdraw your money will depend on how your investments have performed. Investing is generally more suitable for longer-term goals. Before investing, think about:
- When you may need the money
- Whether you could leave it invested if its value falls
When will the new Investment Account be available?
The Government plans for providers to begin offering the new investment accounts in 2027.
More information, including the tax rate, tax-free threshold and annual contribution limit, is expected to be announced as part of Budget 2027.
