Ireland’s pension landscape has evolved with the introduction of auto-enrolment pensions (AE), a new retirement savings model designed to increase workforce participation in long-term pension saving. As a major public policy development, AE represents an important step forward for Ireland’s retirement system and is one that Irish Life supports.
Having contributed to the AE debate from the outset and researched international best practice, our focus is now on helping employers understand what auto-enrolment and the new minimum pension standards mean in practice.
On 22 December 2025, the Irish Government signed legislation introducing new minimum contribution rate standards that occupational pension arrangements must meet to qualify for exemption from MyFutureFund. Notably, the government has indicated that well-established, existing pension arrangements are not the primary focus of these changes. Based on what is known so far, the key points that you need to be aware of are outlined here.
All employers must understand the extent to which it might impact their business and their employees.
We’re here to guide you through the process. Speak to one of our pension experts today.
Employer choice and control are valued parts of company pension plans. Employers have the flexibility to carefully select a provider and the services they offer. The state’s auto-enrolment pension solution offers no such choice
There are several differences between a company pension plan and pension auto-enrolment. The comparison table below helps you understand the differences.
Employer choice and control are valued parts of company pension plans. Employers have the flexibility to carefully select a provider and the services they offer. The state’s auto-enrolment pension solution offers no such choice
There are several differences between a company pension plan and pension auto-enrolment. The comparison table below helps you understand the differences.
COMPANY PENSION | AUTO-ENROLMENT |
|---|
| Member engagement | Comprehensive member engagement | Employer and employee portal |
| Advice support | Member support provided via guidance and advice | |
| Contribution flexibility | Inflexible contribution rates with €80k earnings cap | |
| Tax relief | Better option for higher rate taxpayers | Broadly similar outcomes for standard rate taxpayers |
| Ability to make AVCs | ||
| Access to retirement benefits | From age 50 | From age 66 |
| Range of funds | Wide range of investment fund options and fund choices | Limited range of fund options and choice under My Future Fund |
| Member communications | Strong customer support for members | Phone and web chat |
Irish Life Employer Solutions is the No.1 provider of company benefits for Ireland’s employers, making it easier for employers and their workforce to take care of their health and financial wellbeing.
We are a trusted partner for Ireland’s corporates and partner with the top 10 Irish employers and 28/30 of the largest FDI employers. Our strong relationships are underpinned by more than 85 years of insight and experience, supported by in-depth industry knowledge.
We work closely with our employers to better understand their needs and provide expertise and insights so we can guide our clients to find the best solution for their organisation and its employees.
SecureShare is Irish Life’s secure platform for sharing employee data.
Designed to simplify and streamline the data exchange process, SecureShare helps you send information securely, quickly, and safely.
With auto-enrolment in effect from 1 January 2026, now is the time to start using SecureShare to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.
Upload and share data securely in just a few clicks. Track and manage all your data in this secure, simple portal.
Our expert auto-enrolment pension team works closely with employers to understand your business needs and offer practical advice.
Get in touch. We’re here to support you and your employees.
An award-winning solutions provider with unrivalled industry expertise
A robust company pension plan, smart investment strategies and proactive employee support
Guidance, expertise and tools to adapt your benefit strategy to employee needs
Help with guiding your employees to act earlier, retire stronger and build better futures
