Revenue have released figures for refunds made to PAYE taxpayers over the past three years which show a notable increase both in the volume and value of refunds made.

The number of PAYE refunds increased from some 622,000 to 864,000 between 2006 and 2008, with the amounts refunded increasing from €414m to €585m.

Full figures are not available for 2009 to date but there are indicative figures which suggest that the upward trend will continue. There will doubtless be an increase in the number of refunds as a consequence of increasing numbers being made redundant, put on short time, experiencing wage cuts or losing overtime or bonuses.

The most significant categories of claim are Medical Expenses, Flat Rate Expenses, the various Rent Tax Credits and claims for relief in respect of service charges paid.