If you were 55 in 2005 then you could have contributed up to 30% (€11,400) of your gross to your pension and received full income tax/PRSI relief. If you only turned 55 this year then you could have contributed up to 25% (€9,500). If you made contributions in 2005 then subtract them from the 25% or 30% figure and the remainder is the lump sum amount that you could make before October 31st 2006 and retrospectively claim full tax/PRSI relief (note that tax and PRSI relief will need to be claimed manually and separately - see the key topics for a thread about claiming PRSI relief). For example if you made a lump sum contribution of €1,000 then you will be entitled to 42% (assuming top rate taxpayer) and up to 6% PRSI/health levy back - e.g. you could get €480 back from Revenue by cheque. Don't make pension contributions just for the tax relief though especially if there is some other more immediate use to which the money could be better put (e.g. reducing debts, buying a home etc.). If in doubt get independent, professional advice from somebody better placed to assess your overall circumstances and needs.