Households in Waterford are set to feel the impact of Budget 2026 Waterford households, with some costs rising despite targeted relief measures. Eoin Kenny, Tax Partner at Azets, and Serena Fox, Director of Tax at Azets, spoke earlier on Deise Today, reviewing what the budget means for local residents.

Squeezed Middle and Waterford Households

Eoin Kenny said the government entered the budget with strong public finances, prioritising public sector spending and capital investment. While this focus benefits public services, he warned it leaves “people in the squeezed middle being caught as a result.” He added that the government “favoured spending over tax breaks,” meaning childcare costs will not decrease for families, though more places will be made available. Overall, he said Waterford households in this category will see very little change in their net take-home pay.

Additional Costs and Relief Measures for Waterford Households

Serena Fox highlighted the pre-flagged increase in local property tax, which she said “will rise between five to seven percent for the majority of householders from next year.” She welcomed the reduction of the VAT rate for hospitality from 13.5% to 9%, though she noted the timing mismatch with the minimum wage increase, which takes effect from January 2026, while the VAT cut applies from July.

Fox also outlined the impact of increased fuel and home heating oil costs due to carbon tax, tempered slightly by a continued VAT reduction on energy bills.

For Waterford specifically, she welcomed the continuation of the Living City Initiative, aimed at bringing vacant or derelict properties back into residential use.

Budget 2026 Coverage on WLR is brought to you by Azets Waterford & Wexford.

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