If you’re considering a PRSA in Ireland — whether as an employee making AVC contributions, a self-employed professional, or a company director — understanding PRSA charges is crucial. Charges can have a significant impact on your long-term pension outcome, so it’s important to know your options.
The right PRSA strategy should:
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Keep costs appropriate for your situation
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Match investments to your risk tolerance
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Review and rebalance regularly for long-term growth
This guide explains the different types of PRSA charges, how to control them, to help you make the most of your retirement savings.
How Are PRSA Charges Applied?
A Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) in Ireland can include up to three types of charges:
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Allocation (Contribution) Charge
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Deducted from your contributions before investment.
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Some providers historically charged up to 5%, but with the right broker, you can achieve 100% allocation, meaning every euro goes to work for you.
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Fund Manager Charge (FMC)
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Also called the base Annual Management Charge (base AMC).
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Covers fund management, administration, and reporting.
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Varies by active vs passive management and asset mix.
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Financial Advisor – Ongoing Advice Charge
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Applies if you take advice-based PRSAs.
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Covers ongoing investment advice, risk management, portfolio monitoring, and administrative support.
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The FMC (base AMC) plus the advisor support charge together make up the Total AMC.
Types of PRSAs in Ireland
There are two main types:
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Standard PRSA – limited fund options, capped base provider AMC of 1.00% p.a.
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Non-Standard PRSA – wider investment choice, often more flexible and potentially more effective for growth, especially when managed carefully to control charges.
At One Quote Financial Brokers, we now offer three clear PRSA structures so clients can choose the one that best suits their needs, all granting 100% allocation, so zero contribution charges.
Three PRSA Services
1. Execution-Only – Lowest AMC, Setup Fee – No Advice
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Total AMC typically 0.35% – 0.40% p.a. (Min Contribution €350.00 PM)
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Transparent one-off direct fee payable to broker
- No commission paid
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No investment advice
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Designed for very cost-focused, experienced investors
- Minimum contribution levels apply
2. Setup-Only – Low AMC, No Broker Fee, Initial Investment Advice
- Total AMC typically 0.70% – 1.00% p.a. (depending on contribution size)
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No broker fee
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Initial fact-find and recommendations, but no ongoing support
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Suitable for those requiring advice, but wish to make their own investment decisions thereafter
- Minimum contribution levels apply
3. Advice-based PRSAs -No Broker Fee
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Total AMC typically 1.00% – 1.25% p.a. (depending on contribution size)
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Full professional advice included — portfolio design, risk management, and ongoing support
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Access to a broader fund universe and structured PRSA solutions
- Minimum contribution levels apply
Our typical total PRSAs AMCs
| Service Options | Total AMC | Service Outlines |
| Execution-Only | 0.35% – 0.40% | Self-selected, fee payable, lowest AMC |
| Advice On Setup | 0.70% – 1.00% | Initial, but no ongoing advice |
| Full Advisory | 1.00% – 1.25% | Full advisory with ongoing support |
How to Minimise PRSA Charges
No matter which option you choose, you can manage costs effectively:
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Maximise allocation – insist on 100% allocation regardless.
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Understand the AMC – where ongoing advice is provided, the AMC is made up of the base provider AMC + the added AMC which is the broker support charge.
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Pay for value, not excess – with advice-based PRSAs, ensure the ongoing support charge is justified.
Top Tips:
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Active funds may cost slightly more than passive funds — but they can add value over time.
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Always provide accurate contribution details and any planned lump sums when requesting quotes.
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Transparency is key: know exactly what you’re paying and what services you receive.
PRSA Myths and Misconceptions
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“The lowest AMC is always best.”
Execution-only PRSAs may be cheapest, but they come with trade-offs: fewer provider options, limited fund availability, and no advice. More suited to longer investment time horizons. -
“Passive funds always outperform active funds.”
Not necessarily. Passive funds track markets efficiently, but skilled active managers can outperform benchmarks over time. -
“Tracking the S&P 500 guarantees success.”
Market cycles, sector trends, and global factors affect outcomes. Diversification and risk management are crucial for long-term growth.
Smart PRSA Investing
To maximise your retirement savings:
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Diversify – across equities, bonds, property, and other assets.
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Stay flexible – adjust allocations as markets and personal circumstances change.
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Control costs – blend low-cost passive funds with selective active funds.
A well-structured, risk-rated PRSA portfolio is essential for consistent growth and reduced volatility.
One Quote: Transparent PRSA Solutions
At One Quote Financial Brokers, we provide all three PRSA options:
✅ 100% allocation on all contributions
✅ A choice of advisory levels to suit you
✅ Transparent charges — no hidden fees
Our typical PRSA rates:
Free PRSA Advice Consultation
Looking for the best PRSA in Ireland at competitive rates? Start with a free 30-minute phone or video consultation.
Getting in Touch
If choosing to contact us, you must clearly outline your intended regular month contribution level, as well as lump sum level where applicable. We cannot respond to, confirm terms, or arrange any such business without these details.
Contact:
Ken O’Gorman – Retirement Specialist (CB, QFA, RPA, SIA)
Call: 01 845 0049
Email: ken@onequote.ie
Or enquire online and give us a quick outline of how we can help.
