Cork carers to see hike in State payments from this week

Carers and people with disabilities in Cork are to receive further support in 2026, as part of social protection increases that came into effect from January 1 announced by the minister for social protection.

Among the measures coming into effect from this January include a €10 increase in the maximum rate of all core weekly payments, with proportionate increases for qualified adult dependents The weekly rates of the child support payment are increasing by 26% to €78 for children aged 12 and over, and by 16% to €58 for under 12s.

This is the largest ever increase to the weekly child support payments, which will help alleviate child poverty by supporting over 330,000 children.

There will be an increase of 15% in the fuel allowance to €38 per week, with the working family payment thresholds to increase by €60 per week for all family sizes.

There will be an increase of €20 in the monthly rate of domiciliary care allowance, bringing the payment to €380 per month. The increase is to support parents or guardians who look after a child with a severe disability.

BUDGET 2026

The increases, which were secured as part of Budget 2026, aim to tackle child poverty and support pensioners, families, carers, and people with disabilities.

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea said that the measures represent a strong start to 2026 for the people with disabilities and for carers in Cork.

“Families will see higher child payments, carers will benefit from increased supports, and those returning to work will be better assisted.

"Budget 2026 delivers practical improvements that will be felt immediately in households around Cork.

“These increases reflect that balance by helping households in Cork, while also encouraging participation in the workforce.”