Key Financial Dates to Look Out for in 2026 for Business Owners

As a business owner, staying on top of important financial dates is key to keeping things running smoothly. From the changes introduced in Budget 2026 to regular deadlines that come up every year, knowing what’s ahead helps you stay compliant, plan effectively, and make the most of available opportunities.

This blog covers key financial dates and updates business owners need to be aware of in 2026.

January

Minimum Wage Increase

Starting 1 January 2026, Ireland’s minimum wage increased by €0.65 to €14.15 per hour, up from €13.50.

For businesses, this results in higher payroll costs and may require budget reviews, pricing adjustments, and payroll system updates to ensure compliance with the new rate.

Employers in sectors with tighter margins, such as hospitality, retail and childcare, may need to reassess staffing structures, operating costs, or efficiency measures. Forward financial planning is essential to absorb the impact while maintaining profitability.

Income Tax and USC Updates

Budget 2026 did not introduce changes to income tax bands or core tax credits for businesses or the self-employed. However, an important update applies to the Universal Social Charge (USC).

The lower USC band threshold was increased to align with the higher minimum wage, ensuring lower-paid employees are not pushed into higher USC rates due to wage increases.

For employers, this helps protect employees’ take-home pay while avoiding unintended tax impacts from wage adjustments.

VAT Registration Thresholds

Budget 2026 did not change VAT registration thresholds, which remain at:

• €42,500 for services
  
• €85,000 for goods
  

These thresholds continue to allow smaller businesses to remain VAT-exempt where eligible, reducing administrative burdens.

SME VAT Special Scheme (EU Cross-Border Sales)

The SME VAT Special Scheme introduced previously continues to apply in 2026.

This allows EU-based businesses with cross-border sales of up to €100,000 to other EU countries to avoid registering for VAT in each member stateby using a single EX VAT registration.

For eligible SMEs, this simplifies VAT compliance and reduces administrative costs when selling across EU borders.

Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) Thresholds

The increased CAT thresholds introduced previously remain in effect for 2026:

• Group A: €400,000
  
• Group B: €40,000
  
• Group C: €20,000
  

These thresholds continue to provide more generous allowances for tax-free gifts and inheritances, supporting succession and estate planning for business owners and families.

Research & Development (R&D) Tax Credit

The enhanced R&D Tax Credit regime continues in 2026.

Businesses can claim 25% of qualifying R&D expenditure, with an increased first-year refund limit of €75,000, supporting innovation, investment and growth.

This remains a valuable support for SMEs and scaling businesses investing in product development, systems or technology.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Incentives

EV-related incentives remain in place for 2026, including:

• Benefit-in-Kind relief on company electric vehicles
  
• Tax exemptions for employer-provided home EV charger installations
  
• Grants for workplace charging infrastructure
  

These measures continue to support sustainability initiatives while offering cost savings on fuel and maintenance.

Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT)

The Residential Zoned Land Tax remains applicable in 2026.

RZLT applies a 3% annual tax on land zoned for residential use and serviced for development, to encourage housing supply.

Business owners holding development land should continue to review zoning status and compliance obligations to manage potential liabilities.

Retirement Relief

The updated Retirement Relief age limit of 70 continues to apply in 2026, giving business owners more flexibility when transferring qualifying business assets.

Clawback rules remain in place where assets transferred to children are disposed of within 12 years and exceed the relevant value thresholds.

Small Benefit Exemption

The Small Benefit Exemption continues in 2026, allowing employers to provide:

• Up to five non-cash benefits per year.
  
• With a combined value of up to €1,500.
  
• Without triggering tax, USC or PRSI.
  

This remains a tax-efficient way to reward employees when used correctly.

Auto-Enrolment Retirement Savings Scheme

From 1 January 2026, the Auto-Enrolment Retirement Savings Scheme is now live.

Eligible employees aged 23 to 60, earning over €20,000, who are not already in a workplace pension, are automatically enrolled.

Employers are required to contribute alongside employee contributions, with additional State top-ups applied.

For business owners, this introduces new payroll, compliance and cost considerations and should be factored into financial planning for 2026 and beyond.