Key Dates and Upcoming Changes in Ireland’s Social Welfare System Before January
The upcoming changes to Ireland’s social welfare system, confirmed in Budget 2026, will take effect starting January 2026. Recipients should prepare for a series of important adjustments affecting payments and eligibility.
Key Dates and Upcoming Changes in Ireland’s Social Welfare System Before January
Increases in Social Welfare Payments
- Universal social welfare payments, including the state pension and jobseekers, will rise by €10 per week effective January 1, 2026.
Christmas Bonus
- Long-term social welfare recipients will receive a Christmas Bonus, amounting to 100% of their weekly payment.
- This bonus is expected to be distributed during the first week of December 2025.
Changes to the Working Family Payment
- The income threshold for the Working Family Payment will increase by €60 per week starting January 2026.
- Eligible recipients will also qualify for the Fuel Allowance beginning in March 2026, with payments backdated to January.
Adjustments for Carers
- The maximum weekly personal rate of Carer’s Allowance will see a €10 increase in January 2026.
- In July 2026, the weekly income disregard for Carer’s Allowance will rise to €1,000 for singles and €2,000 for couples.
Child Support Payment Enhancements
- The Child Support Payment will increase by €8 for children under 12, raising the amount from €50 to €58.
- For children aged 12 years and older, the payment will rise from €62 to €78, an increase of €16.
Fuel Allowance Adjustments
- From January 2026, the weekly Fuel Allowance will increase by €5, bringing the total to €38 per week.
- Individuals transitioning from Disability Allowance or Blind Pension to employment will retain their Fuel Allowance for five years, starting September 2026.
Domiciliary Care Allowance Increase
- The Domiciliary Care Allowance will rise by €20 in January 2026, increasing from €360 to €380 per month.
These changes aim to enhance support for vulnerable groups in Ireland. Recipients are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for these new measures as they approach.
