TechTalk: Co-habiting Couples and Taxation in Ireland

According to the Central Statistics Office, the number of couples co-habiting has been on the increase but many fail to realise they don’t share the same tax advantages as married couples or civil partners. This can lead to unexpected exposure to Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT), especially when inheritance, property ownership, or life insurance benefits are involved.

 Our latest TechTalk breaks down:

• Why the €20,000 CAT threshold can leave co‑habiting partners significantly exposed.
• How mortgage protection and level term cover can trigger (or avoid) tax liabilities.
• Practical planning steps, including 'Life of Another' policies, Section 72 cover, and the Dwelling House Exemption rules.
• Practical example showing how quickly an inheritance tax bill can escalate.

If you have further questions on any aspect of this TechTalk, please contact your Broker Consultant or the Technical Services team on 01 209 2020 or techsupport@zurich.com.