See the updated salary limits for families with 1 to 8+ children.
Official Department of Social Protection figures below.The "Living Wage" Gap for 2026
As the cost of living in Ireland continues to rise, the Government has responded by increasing the qualifying limits for the Working Family Payment (WFP) in Budget 2026. This adjustment is crucial because it opens the door for thousands of "middle-income" workers who were previously just above the cut-off point.
The WFP is designed to support employees whose income is low relative to their family size. It is not a fixed benefit but a "top-up" payment. The key to eligibility lies in the Weekly Income Thresholds. If your average weekly family income is less than the amount shown in the table below for your family size, you are eligible for a cash payment.
2026 Weekly Income Thresholds
Locate your family size in the table below to see the maximum amount you can earn while still qualifying for the payment.
| Number of Children | 2026 Weekly Income Limit (€) |
|---|---|
| 1 Child | €645.00 |
| 2 Children | €746.00 |
| 3 Children | €847.00 |
| 4 Children | €938.00 |
| 5 Children | €1,064.00 |
| 6 Children | €1,180.00 |
| 7 Children | €1,312.00 |
| 8 or more Children | €1,408.00 |
Note: These figures are based on the Budget 2026 increase of €54 across all board bands. Please verify exact cents on the official MyWelfare portal.
How the Payment is Calculated
Understanding the threshold is only step one. The actual money you receive is calculated using the "60% Rule". The Department does not pay the full difference; they pay 60% of the gap between your income and the threshold.
What counts as "Income"?
- Assessable: Your net earnings from employment (after tax, PRSI, and USC), your partner's net earnings, and any other social welfare payments you might be receiving.
- NOT Assessable: Child Benefit, Rent Supplement, Fuel Allowance, and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) are generally excluded from the income test, meaning they do not lower your WFP payment.
Is the payment taxable?
No. Working Family Payment is entirely tax-free. It does not need to be declared as taxable income to Revenue at the end of the year.
I am separated. Does my ex-partner's income count?
If you are separated and living apart, your ex-partner's income is not included in the means test. Only the income of the adults living in your household is assessed. However, maintenance payments you receive may be assessed.
How long does the payment last?
Once awarded, WFP is paid for 52 weeks (one year). During this time, your payment will not change, even if your earnings increase, unless you stop working or your hours drop below 38 per fortnight.