Lots of people rely on the Carer’s Allowance to help them look after a loved one. From July 2026, caregivers across Ireland will see big improvements in financial support from the government, with Minister Calleary securing record increases for the Social Protection Budget. These are the largest ever increases in the Carer’s income disregard, with a record 60% in the Carer’s Allowance weekly income disregard.
The aim is to make it easier for families to access essential care and support, without worrying about income limits or rising household expenses. More people are going to be able to qualify for a carer’s payment for the first time, making it easier to provide day-to-day care to someone because of age, disability, or illness.
Here is a breakdown of what these budget changes really mean for carers, and some guidance on accessing support from experienced home care providers like Bongiwe Home Carers.
Key 2026 Budget Changes for Carers
The 2026 Social Protection Budget brings meaningful updates in financial support for both full-time and part-time carers:
- From July 2026, the income threshold for Carer’s Allowance will rise to €1,000 per week for single carers and €2,000 per week for couples.
- Starting in January 2026, most weekly social welfare payments will be increased by €10.
- The Domiciliary Care Allowance (paid to parents or guardians of children with disabilities) will increase by €20 to a new rate of €380 per month.
- A Christmas Bonus, which offers a double payment to 1.5 million long-term social welfare recipients, will be paid in December 2025.
- In January 2026, the Fuel Allowance will be increased by €5, from €33 to €38 per week.
These changes are a welcome relief, expanding eligibility and offering incremental financial support for carers. However, some advocacy groups have noted that the rising costs of living and care still leave many carers stretched. More work may be needed to ensure sufficient support for those dedicating their lives to caring for others.
What Do These Changes Mean for Carers in Ireland?
The Social Protection Package can have a significant impact on the everyday lives of those caring for family members. For the first time ever, even people with what are considered to be relatively high incomes will be able to benefit from the Carer’s Allowance, taking some of the pressure off. This increase in income disregard helps households facing tough choices between paid work and providing care.
For busy families who need support from professional home care services, the changes in the 2026 budget make it easier to fund outside help too. Whether it’s regular personal care and companionship care, or much-needed respite care, being able to afford support from home care provides can give carers essential breaks and improving quality of life for loved ones.
The extra weekly social welfare payments come at a time when household expenses are rising, helping families to pay their bills and stay healthy and warm. Every increase in the budget can make a real difference for families, especially when they have mounting additional costs associated with care, causing unnecessary stress.
How Do I Know if I’m Eligible for a Home Carer’s Allowance?
The Carer’s Allowance is a means-tested payment for people caring for someone who needs substantial support at home due to age, illness, or disability. To qualify, you and the person you are caring for need to meet certain requirements, and the Department of Social Protection (DSP) will assess your sources of income to determine how much support you receive.
From July 2026, your weekly income can be up to €1,000 for single households or €2,000 for couples before it affects your payment, making more families eligible. If you’re unsure whether you qualify for Carer’s Allowance, our team at Bongiwe Home Carers will be happy to help. We can answer any questions you may have and guide you through the application process, ensuring you get the financial support you’re entitled to.
Contact us to find out more
If you want to learn more about Carer’s Allowance, the recent budget changes, companionship care services, or how professional care services can support your family, explore the FAQ section of the Bongiwe Home Carers website. We understand that new eligibility rules and changing financial support can be confusing. Our dedicated team not only delivers personalised home care services, providing peace of mind to families, they also offer practical advice for families navigating Ireland’s evolving social welfare landscape.
For personalised guidance, please contact us directly. From help with government paperwork to offering flexible care solutions, Bongiwe Home Carers gives you and your family the support needed to make the most of these positive changes.
