Additional Voluntary Contribution (AVC)

Most commonly known as Pension top-ups, AVCs allow you to boost your pension savings beyond mandatory contributions, enhancing retirement income and securing a more comfortable financial future.

Getting a quote is the first step in your journey! Answer a few questions and wait for one of our Advisors to contact you!

What is an AVC?

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) are tax-efficient extra payments you can make in addition to your existing pension. Whether you started your pension later in life, or have extra cash to put away, an AVC is a pension option for you. When you retire, you can use the money you invested into an AVC to buy additional pension benefits you want.

LowQuotes.ie
4.9
Based on 1587 reviews
Avinash A.
Avinash A.
We had a great experience arranging our mortgage protection insurance, and Colin Bailey was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. He guided us clearly through every step, answered all our questions with patience, and made what could have been a stressful process feel very smooth and straightforward.We really appreciated his support, professionalism, and dedication
Michelle L.
Michelle L.
My husband and I are first time buyers. We had a really positive experience securing mortgage cover. Colin was so knowledgeable and guided us through the process. Our case was not entirely straightforward from a medical point of view, so having someone on the other end of the phone or advising us by email at every step of the process made it much easier than we had thought it might be! Thank you, Colin!
Marion H.
Marion H.
Aoife was excellent helpful and listened carefully to my requirements and matched with a policy that also will provide an online doctor as part of the package.Thanks so much Aoife
C
C
Absolutely professional and friendly service from Cormac Logue. Couldn't have asked for someone better on the other end . A pleasure to speak to
Damien C.
Damien C.
Had the pleasure of dealing with Niamh McCaul. Niamh was very helpful and patient as she went through everything with me from start to finish . Niamh got back in touch very quick with a policy I was happy with. Niamh went above and beyond thank you so much Niamh
Sharon G.
Sharon G.
Sarah was very helpful throughout the whole process. She was able to answer all out queries and talk us through how the process typically works. Replies were always very prompt and Sarah made the whole process straight forward.
Brian S.
Brian S.
Cormac LogueI can't thank this man enough from start to finish has been amazing, any questions asked Cormac had the answer if im been honest he is the only reason I decided to take this policy with this company as his service goes above and beyond thanks so much for your patience and help with everything Cormac and I'll defo be in touch should I need any other policy top man
Snatch M.
Snatch M.
Outstanding Support From Start to FinishWe received our mortgage drawdown and keys to our new home on 22nd December 2025, and we honestly couldn’t have reached this milestone without the incredible support of Bernadine from LowQuotes.From the very beginning of our journey, Bernadine went above and beyond. She was professional, patient, knowledgeable, and always willing to explain every step clearly — no matter how many questions we had. What truly stood out was how invested she was in our success; this never felt like a transaction, but a genuine partnership.The mortgage process can be overwhelming, but Bernadine made it feel structured, manageable, and even reassuring. Her responsiveness, attention to detail, and commitment to getting the best possible outcome for us were exceptional.We are deeply grateful for her dedication and would wholeheartedly recommend Bernadine and LowQuotes to anyone starting their mortgage journey. If you’re looking for someone who truly cares and will go the extra mile, you’re in the best hands.Thank you for helping us turn a dream into reality.Emmanuel & Dorothy
Kasia H.
Kasia H.
Alan Broderick was a pleasure to deal with. From start to finish , clear in everything. Would highly recommend.
priscilla1 G.
priscilla1 G.
Excellent service and very good guidance
Vadym E.
Vadym E.
We can’t recommend Niamh highly enough. From the very beginning, she was supportive, knowledgeable, and always quick to respond to any questions we had. She clearly explained the mortgage process, made sure we understood each step, and guided us through everything with great care and professionalism.Niamh worked tirelessly to find the best solution for us and helped make the whole experience smooth and reassuring, even during stressful moments. Her communication was excellent throughout, and we always felt confident knowing she was looking after our interests.If you’re looking for a mortgage broker who is genuinely dedicated, approachable, and reliable, Niamh is an excellent choice. We’re very grateful for her help in securing our home and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.
Shane O.
Shane O.
As a first-time buyer, buying as a single applicant, I had a million questions, and Niamh McCaul answered every single one with patience and expertise.She went above and beyond to make sure I felt comfortable and confident with my decisions. It’s rare to find someone so dedicated to her client's success.I cannot recommend Niamh highly enough! From our very first phone call, she made the entire mortgage process feel seamless and stress-free. As someone who was quite overwhelmed by the paperwork, Niamh’s ability to explain everything in plain English was a lifesaver.She was always one step ahead, keeping me updated at every turn and securing a fantastic rate. If you want a mortgage advisor who is professional, proactive, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further.Thank you, Niamh, for making my dream home a reality!Shane.
Karen B D.
Karen B D.
Used low quotes to get a better deal on our life protection and mortgage protection as the banks were a bit unsustainable. Wish I had done this from the start. We had Alan Broderick from the start, he's fantastic at what he does, makes it very human and personal experience. Explained everything without being too jargon-y. He was patient and very helpful with following up with our case. Would highly recommend you give them a call 🙂
Una F.
Una F.
Thank you Shaun Young for all your help. You made the process so easy, Very efficent and explained all the details so clearlyAgnes (Una) Farrell
Nikolina G.
Nikolina G.
Very professional and easy process to insurance.Alan B. Was amazing and very professional in his guidance true the insurance application.
Ciara K.
Ciara K.
Rebecca was great to deal with and was very helpful. Would absolutely recommend as the entire process was positive.
Eric H.
Eric H.
Conor O'Hare was absolutely excellent in helping during such a stressful time and getting a policy that suited me.I would recommend him and low quotes to anyone as they made the whole process very easy.
js_loader

What are the advantages of AVCs?

Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) are discretionary payments individuals can make to supplement their pension savings beyond regular contributions to workplace or personal pension schemes. AVCs offer flexibility, allowing individuals to enhance their pension pot by contributing additional funds, providing financial security for retirement. These contributions are voluntary, empowering individuals to decide the amount and frequency of payments based on their financial situation. Moreover, AVCs may offer tax efficiency, potentially reducing overall tax liability through qualifying contributions. This flexibility and potential for increased retirement income make AVCs valuable for optimizing pension planning and ensuring a comfortable retirement.

With AVCs, you have control over your investment, enabling you to adjust contributions according to your evolving needs. Whether increasing, decreasing, stopping, or restarting contributions, this adaptability ensures your investments align with changing priorities. Eligibility for an AVC Plan typically arises upon becoming a member of your employer’s Superannuation Scheme, with contributions subject to Revenue-set limits and a minimum monthly contribution of €75 (or equivalent).

Tax Relief

Investing in an AVC allows you to benefit from tax relief on your investments,  For example: If your marginal rate of tax is 40% and you invest €100, the actual cost to you is €60 as you get 40% (€40) in tax relief. This makes it much more tax efficient compared to a savings account as you can also maximise your tax-free lump sum on retirement.

Retire Early

Every investment you make into your AVC will grow your Pension fund, gaining you closer to your ideal estimated fund value. Meaning you could be retiring sooner than you think. The state pension retirement age is ever increasing, why not personally take control of when you retire?

Flexibility

flexibility to modify your Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) at your discretion. You can increase, decrease, stop, or restart your AVC contributions as needed. This adaptability allows you to align your pension strategy with changing financial circumstances, ensuring that you have control over the level of contributions based on your preferences, life events, or evolving priorities. 

Start a Retirement Planning today to have the future of your dreams!

Planning for retirement is a significant milestone. Whether you’re just starting to think about retirement or are already well into your retirement journey, this guide will help you make informed decisions and create a retirement plan that aligns with your financial goals. And it’s totally FREE! Don’t wait, download now!

Your journey towards financial freedom starts here!

After you download your guide, one of our expert Financial Advisors will be in touch shortly to provide you with guidance and further relevant information to build you a customised retirement plan.

What are my investment options?

This is entirely your own choice and dependent on your risk profile, it is usually invested in a range of unit linked funds. You’ll have access to a wide range of different assets with varying degrees of risk, so you’ll be sure to find a solution that works for you.

Retirement options with AVCs.

Meet our Team of Expert Advisors

Would you like to speak to an advisor?

Our award winning team is always here to help you.

Your Questions Answered

We’re living longer than previous generations. Upon retirement, on average we will have 20-30 years of retirement. A pension plan will make sure you’re financially sound for these years. Whether you wish to travel, retire to the country, or spend time with your children & grandchildren.

The amount you will receive per month entirely depends on how much you’re willing to pay per month, the length of time you’ve been making contributions, the type of pension plan and its investment return. You can also choose to receive a lump sum upon retirement or not.

As of today, the State Contributory Pension is about €240 per week. For most people, during their 20-30 years of retirement, this simply isn’t enough. When you pay into a pension plan, you will receive both the state pension (If available to you) and your Pension Plan.

Tax relief reduces the actual cost of your pension. You do not have to pay tax on money that you put into a personal pension (This falls within the limits set out below). This is calculated at the highest rate of tax you pay (Currently 20% / 40%)

Example:
Monthly contribution = €100
Tax Relief (40%) = €40
Cost to you = €60

Warning: Past performance is not a reliable guide to future performance.      

Warning: The value of your investment may go down and up.      

Warning: If you invest in this product, you will not have any access to your money until you retire.   

Warning: If you invest in this product, you may lose some or all of your investment.     

Warning: This product may be affected by changes in currency exchange rates. 

We’re proud to have been featured in Ireland’s leading media outlets, sharing insights on insurance, mortgages, and financial planning.

As seen on

You might be Interested in...

Follow us on Social Media

For press, marketing, or partnership enquiries, please reach out to our Media & PR team.

Career at LowQuotes

Here at LowQuotes, we want to ensure that our clients receive the highest standard of service.  If you have a passion for connecting with people and aspire to thrive in a culture built on trust, dedication and excellence, please send us your CV below. 

Talk to us live for Pension guidance using...

No Fields Found.
insurance advisor

Quick Call Back

Enter your details below and a Financial Advisor will call you back promptly.

Contact Info

Coronavirus Covid 19 Information

We would like to assure our customers that although this Worldwide Pandemic has struck our Nation hard, we are still here for our new and existing customers. All phone calls and emails will be dealt with accordingly.

In the unfortunate circumstance that a customer contracts COVID-19 and dies, our life policies would pay out in line with our usual claims philosophy.

All Consultations will be held by Phone or Online via Computer/Smart Device to remove face-to-face interactions and keeping in line with social distancing guidelines recommended by the Government.

We at Lowquotes.ie hope you, your family and your loved ones stay safe & healthy in this time.