USC changes to see pay packets rise

Reductions in Universal Social Charge rates and changes in the levels at which workers begin paying them will see pay packets increased.

However, new, higher rates of USC have been introduced for higher earners, which the Government claims will claw back any bonuses they gain from separate income tax changes.

The first entry point to the USC has been moved from €10,500 to €12,000. This will remove 80,000 low-income workers from the charge altogether.