Online saving and investing are now mainstream in Ireland.
Many FastTax.ie customers earn interest through savings platforms like Raisin, invest in shares through apps like Trading 212 or Trade Republic, or build portfolios using ETFs.
But each type of income is taxed differently. Understanding how savings, shares, ETFs and dividends are taxed in Ireland helps you avoid mistakes and file your tax return correctly.
Here’s what you need to know.
How savings interest is taxed in Ireland
Irish savings accounts
If your savings are with an Irish bank, tax is simple. Your bank automatically deducts DIRT (Deposit Interest Retention Tax) at the current rate of 33% before paying your interest. You don’t usually need to declare this separately.
Foreign and online savings accounts (e.g. Raisin)
If your savings are held outside Ireland, tax is not usually deducted automatically.
This applies to platforms such as:
- Raisin
- European bank accounts
- Other online savings platforms
Instead:
- You receive your interest gross (untaxed)
- You must declare it on your tax return
- The tax is generally charged at 33% for EU deposit interest, or at the higher or your marginal tax rate for other foreign deposit interest.
Learn more in our guide: The Ultimate Guide to Tax on Foreign Savings and Raisin Accounts
How shares are taxed in Ireland (Capital Gains Tax)
If you buy and sell shares at a profit, you may need to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT).
The current CGT rate is 33% on your gain. You only pay tax on the profit, not the full sale amount.
For example:
- Buy shares for €5,000
- Sell for €8,000
- Gain = €3,000
- CGT applies to €3,000
There is also an annual exemption of €1,270, which reduces your taxable gain.
CGT is declared separately from your income tax return.
How dividends are taxed in Ireland
If you own shares, you may receive dividends. Dividends are taxed differently from capital gains. They are usually taxed as income, which may mean:
- Income tax
- PRSI
- USC
This also applies to dividends received through platforms such as:
- Trading 212
- Trade Republic
- DEGIRO
- eToro
You must include both Irish and foreign dividends on your tax return. FastTax.ie guides you through this as part of your Form 11.
How ETFs are taxed in Ireland (Exit Tax and Deemed Disposal)
ETFs are taxed differently from shares and are one of the most misunderstood investments in Ireland. From 2026 onwards ETF gains are taxed at 38% exit tax, not 33% CGT.
This applies when:
- You sell the ETF
- Or after 8 years, even if you don’t sell (called a deemed disposal)
This rule applies to ETFs held through all platforms. Because of these rules, ETF tax reporting can be more complex. FastTax.ie helps ensure everything is declared correctly.
Why online investors in Ireland often need to file a tax return
Many Irish investors use online platforms and brokers such as Raisin, Trade Republic, Trading212, DERIGO or eToro. These platforms usually do not deduct Irish tax automatically.
You may need to file a Form 11 if you earn:
- Foreign savings interest
- Dividends from shares
- Capital gains
- ETF gains
Filing correctly ensures you remain fully compliant with Revenue.
How FastTax.ie helps online savers and investors
FastTax.ie is designed specifically for people earning income beyond a standard Irish salary.
We help you declare:
- Foreign savings interest
- Online investment income
- Dividends
- ETF gains
Our guided system helps you complete your tax return safely and confidently, without accountant fees or the hassle of Revenue’s ROS. Free up your time and resources to focus on your gains!
The key takeaway: Online investment tax in Ireland
Different types of online income are taxed differently:
- Irish savings: DIRT deducted automatically
- Foreign savings: declare via tax return
- Shares: 33% CGT on gains
- Dividends: taxed as income
- ETFs: 41% exit tax
FastTax.ie makes it easy to declare everything correctly.
CTA section
Using Raisin, Trade Republic, Trading 212 or other online platforms?
FastTax.ie helps you file correctly and stay fully compliant. Get started today.
