€10 increases to most social welfare rates to ring in 2026 – O’Donovan

Changes to social welfare rates will ensure families, those with disabilities, carers and people on fixed incomes begin 2026 with stronger supports and greater financial security, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Senator Noel O’Donovan said: “These measures represent a strong start to 2026. Families will see higher child payments, carers will benefit from increased supports, and those returning to work will be better assisted.

“These are practical improvements from Budget 2026 which will make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Most weekly social welfare payments will rise by €10 which will give immediate relief to households around the country.

Child Support Payments will also increase with families receiving €58 per week for children under 12 and €78 per week for children aged 12 and over.

Fuel Allowance will rise to €38 per week, while Working Family Payment thresholds will increase by €60 per week for all family sizes, while importantly Working Family Payment recipients will also qualify for Fuel Allowance from March, with payments backdated for those who meet the conditions.

Further enhancements will roll-out later in 2026 with carers seeing substantial increases in income disregards and benefit limits from July, while people with disabilities moving into employment will retain the fuel allowance for five year and get access to the Back to Work Family Dividend.

The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance will also be extended to include children aged two and three, easing costs for parents of younger children.

Senator O’Donovan, from Cork South West, concluded by saying, “These changes will support families at every stage of life while also encouraging and rewarding those who take up work.

“As we enter 2026, these measures will provide reassurance and opportunity, ensuring the year ahead builds on a strong foundation of fairness and support.”