Inheritance Tax in Ireland Also Affects Priests…

A letter from John Sheridan on the effects of inheritance tax in Ireland on childless citizens …

I am writing to you to bring to your attention a matter of significant concern regarding the current inheritance tax laws in Ireland, specifically how they impact childless citizens such as priests.

​Currently, inheritance tax thresholds are based on the relationship between the beneficiary and the deceased. While Group 1 (children inheriting from parents) has a generous tax-free threshold of €400,000, individuals who are childless often pass their assets to siblings, nieces, nephews, or close friends. These beneficiaries fall into Group 2 or Group 3, which have significantly lower thresholds (€40,000 and €20,000 respectively), resulting in a disproportionately high tax burden.

This system creates an inequitable situation where a person’s life savings can be heavily taxed upon their death simply because they do not have children, while someone with children can pass on a much larger estate tax-free. This feels like a form of discrimination and puts childless citizens at a considerable disadvantage.

I urge you to raise this issue with local TD and raise awareness within the Association of Catholic Priests. It is important that our tax system is fair to all citizens, regardless of their family circumstances. I believe a review of the current thresholds and a consideration for a new, fairer approach is urgently needed.

​Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter. 

​Yours sincerely,

John Sheridan

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