The national minimum wage increases to €14.15 from today, as part of a number of budget measures kicking in to start the new year. It also includes a €10 rise in the maximum rate of most weekly social welfare payments, such as the State pension which takes effect from this month. To coincide with the minimum wage rise, the 2% rate band limit for USC increases to €28,700 from €27,382 from today. However, several other of the key Budget changes will not apply until later in the year. The increase in the income disregard for the carer’s allowance does not take effect until July.

Source: Irish Examiner December 31, 2025 20:00 UTC