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NOW THAT THE weeks of speculation are over, and this year’s Budget has been announced, let’s get specific about what it means for you.

If you’ve been making about €50,000 or so, here’s how things will change for you next year.

Income Tax

The lower and higher rates of income tax are staying the same, so even if you’re edging up into the higher bracket there’s no change there.

But if you’re self-employed, there’s an additional tax credit on the way that you’ll benefit from to the tune of  €550 for the year.

Saving: €550 if you’re self-employed

USC

Whether you’re PAYE or self-employed, this is where the main thrust of the savings will come from.

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If you’re earning €30,000, you’re currently paying USC across the top three rates, totalling about €2,650 a year.

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Each of these top three rates have now been reduced, the bottom two by 0.5% and the third rate by 1.5%. The USC situation is now:

On the first €12,012 = 1%

Up to €18,668 = 3%

Up to €70,044 = 5.5%