Yes – if you’re self-employed or a sole trader, you can make a pension contribution before the tax deadline (usually 31 Oct or mid-Nov if online) and elect to apply it to the previous tax year.
Example
- If your 2024 income was €100,000 and you’re aged 40, you can claim tax relief on a pension contribution of up to €25,000.
- This reduces your 2024 income tax bill.
Excess contributions can be carried forward. Check limits before contributing. See our helpful pensions calculator.

