Double social welfare payment at Christmas on the cards for Budget 2026

Government set to confirm Christmas bonus double payments and €12 welfare hike as €1.8bn social protection package takes shape

Government sources indicated social protection minister Dara Calleary is pressing for the annual Christmas bonus double payments on key welfare entitlements, including the State pension and jobseekers allowance. Picture: Jason Clarke

A double payment of core social welfare rates at Christmas is on the cards, as negotiations ramp up for next Tuesday’s budget.

Government sources indicated social protection minister Dara Calleary is pressing for the annual Christmas bonus double payments on key welfare entitlements, including the State pension and jobseekers allowance.