Understanding Your HSE Pension
This calculator is designed for the HSE Employee Superannuation Scheme (Standard Accrual), which generally applies to employees who joined the Irish public service before 1 January 2013.
Class A vs Class D: The Difference
The most important factor in your calculation is your PRSI Class:
- Class D (Pre-1995): You pay a lower rate of PRSI but are not entitled to the full State Pension. Your HSE pension is calculated at 1/80th of your full salary per year of service.
- Class A (Post-1995): You pay full PRSI and build up entitlement to the State Pension (Contributory). Your HSE pension is "integrated" (reduced) to account for this, using a "1/200th" formula for salary below a certain threshold (approx. 3.33 times the State Pension).
The Formulas Used
- Lump Sum: 3/80ths × Final Salary × Years of Service (Max 40).
- Pension (Class D): 1/80th × Final Salary × Years of Service.
- Pension (Class A): Calculated in two parts using the "Coordinated Pay" method to account for the State Pension offset.
Common Questions
Does this calculator work for the Single Scheme?
No. If you joined the public service on or after 1 January 2013, you are likely a member of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme. That scheme uses a "Career Average" model which calculates benefits based on your earnings each year, indexed to CPI. This calculator uses the "Final Salary" model for pre-2013 entrants.
What is the Lump Sum limit?
The standard lump sum is tax-free up to a lifetime limit of €200,000. Amounts between €200,000 and €500,000 are taxed at 20%.