Emergency tax is avoidable if you take the right steps before starting a new job. Here's how to ensure your tax is correct from your first payday.
✅ Pre-Job Checklist
- Have your PPS Number ready
- Update your myAccount Jobs & Pensions record
- Provide details to your new employer ASAP
- Check your first payslip for "Emergency" or "EMERG"
Step 1: Update Your myAccount
Before starting your new job, log into Revenue's myAccount and check your "Jobs & Pensions" section. If your old job is still listed as current, update it to show you've left.
Step 2: Give Your Details to Your New Employer
As soon as you accept a job offer:
- Provide your PPS Number
- Complete any tax forms they give you
- Do this before your first payday
Step 3: Ask Your Employer to Request Your RPN
Your employer needs to request your Revenue Payroll Notification (RPN) from Revenue. This contains your tax credits and rate band. Ask them to confirm they've done this.
Step 4: Check Your First Payslip
When you receive your first payslip, look for:
- ❌ "Emergency Tax" or "EMERG" — problem, needs fixing
- ❌ 40% tax on all earnings — problem, needs fixing
- ✅ Normal tax rates with credits applied — you're good!
⚠️ Already on Emergency Tax?
If you're already being charged emergency tax, don't wait. The sooner you fix it, the less you overpay. Get help now →
Need Help With Emergency Tax?
We'll fix your tax situation and claim back any overpayments.
Fix My Emergency Tax →Related Guides
Filed under:Emergency Tax Ireland