New legislation introduces adjustments to child benefit payouts

A bill submitted to the House of Representatives on September 29, 2026, proposes significant reforms to the child benefit system. The legislation aims to support families in lower income brackets by increasing payment amounts and expanding income thresholds, allowing a greater number of households to qualify for assistance. The changes are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, pending approval by the relevant parliamentary committee.

The benefit structure remains dependent on the number of children and annual household income, with payments decreasing as income rises. For a family with one dependent child, the benefit is set at €659 for incomes up to €22,000, scaling down to €120 for those earning between €64,000 and €69,000. For households with two children, the benefit begins at €790 for incomes up to €22,000 and drops to €109 for incomes between €69,000 and €74,000. Eligibility is completely terminated for families with one child earning over €69,000, and for those with two children earning above €74,000.