When was the Universal Social Charge (USC) introduced?

The Universal Social Charge (USC) was introduced in 2011 as a response to the economic challenges facing Ireland at that time. The USC was implemented as part of the government’s strategy to stabilize public finances and raise additional revenue. This charge is applied to gross income and is levied on all income earners, reflecting a broadening of the tax base. The creation of the USC consolidated various existing levies into a single charge, replacing the income levies that were in effect previously, thereby simplifying the tax system. Understanding the timing and purpose of the USC is crucial in recognizing its role in the fiscal policies adopted during that economic period in Ireland.