Unemployed recently? You could be due a BIG tax refund. Here’s what you need to know
Let’s face it, unemployment is daunting for almost everyone!
However, did you know that if you have lost work after a period of employment, there is a strong chance that you will be entitled to a tax refund?
It’s true!
And claiming your tax back can really make a big difference and help tide you over as you look to secure your next role.
The average Irish tax refund that a Taxback customer receives is €1,880 and, in this quick guide, we’ll outline what you can claim and show you how to get your tax back easily online.
The average Irish tax refund is €1,880
Can I claim tax back if I become unemployed?
You may be entitled to a tax refund when you become unemployed. You may also be eligible to claim a tax refund if you’re out of work due to illness.
Exactly how much you can claim depends on how long you were employed for, how many tax credits you used and the amount of tax you paid.
The good news is that you can go back four years when claiming your refund.
How can I tell if I have unused tax credits?
The tax liability on your salary is normally divided evenly over a tax year.
When you become unemployed your employer will provide Revenue with your pay and tax details and the date you left your job.
Your employer works out your tax liability from 1 January to the date you received your most recent pay. This means that if you become unemployed during the year, you will have unused tax credits and may be able to claim a refund.
Taxback will help you check whether you can claim unused tax credits.
I am claiming social welfare payments. How does this affect my tax situation?
Social welfare payments (jobseeker’s benefit, illness benefit and payment under the occupational injury benefit scheme) are all sources of taxable income. However, the first €13 of your weekly jobseeker’s allowance is not taxable.
When you’re claiming a tax refund, the taxable portion of your social welfare payments are added together to your wages to determine whether or not you’re due a refund.
If you have been in receipt of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment or Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme payments check out our guide on everything you need to know here.
Did you pay emergency tax?
When you first start working or if you change employment, you may be hit with emergency tax.
While this is a higher rate of tax than you would normally expect to pay (read more here) but the good news is, if you have paid emergency tax within the last four years, you may be able to claim a refund.
What other Irish expenses can I claim?
In truth, there are countless tax reliefs that can be claimed.
For example, if you paid for medical (such as GP or consultant bills, physio or maternity care) or non-routine dental expenses, you can claim back 20% of the cost.
What’s more, thousands of married couples miss out on claiming the tax reliefs they’re due each year. Don’t let this happen to you! If you got married within the last four years, you could be entitled to claim ‘year of marriage’ tax relief.
Plus, if you pay tuition fees, care for a loved one at home or have worked from home, you could be entitled to a substantial refund.
But, as mentioned above, this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Have you recently become unemployed?
Taxback will put some money back in your pocket!
Our experienced tax team will help you to claim your maximum tax refund.
We will conduct a complete four year assessment of your tax entitlements and ensure you get every relief you’re entitled to.
How much tax can I claim back?
Remember, the average PAYE tax refund is €1,880 so it makes a lot of sense to check how much Irish tax rebates you’re owed.
You can even use our tax refund calculator to check how much tax back you are due!
The average Irish tax refund is €1,880
Why apply with Taxback?
Using Taxback is the most stress-free way of applying for your Irish tax refund.
Here's a few short reasons to apply today:
- Simple & fast online process
- Your maximum refund guaranteed – average refund €1,880
- No complicated forms – we handle the paperwork
Got questions about your tax refund?
No problem! Our Live Chat team are online 24/7 to support you.
Just get in touch today!