FINANCE MINISTER PASCHAL Donohoe has hinted that we may see a return of the rent tax credit in this year’s Budget.

While Donohoe was coy with reporters today about the status of the credit in this year’s Budget, he did say he wanted to “emphasise my recognition of the importance of that credit” when it comes to lowering the bills for tenants.

The measure allows renters to claim amounts worth up to €1,000 annually over the past two years.

It was initially worth €500 when it was introduced in 2022, but was doubled and backdated for anyone who hadn’t claimed the initial credit.

Budget Day is just a few weeks out and details have emerged on numerous measures.

Donohoe gently lifted the lid on the role of the rent tax credit today when he told reporters of the benefits it has played for renters over recent years.

“I am well aware of the importance of the rent tax credit and the really valuable role that it has played in supporting tenants with rising rents,” Donohoe said.

The rent tax credit is due to come to an end at the end of this year and while no decisions have yet been made on any tax measure, I just emphasise my recognition of the importance of that credit and the role that it plays in supporting tenants.

While last year’s pre-election budget was described as a give-away by some, expectations for this year’s Budget on 7 October are being tempered.

The Government has been at pains to emphasise uncertain economic winds that might be coming our way, and with US tariffs coming in at 15% a more cautious approach is being taken.

This year’s €9.4 billion package includes €1.5 billion in tax cuts and a €7.9 billion spending package, an increase of 7.3% for next year.

Despite these figures being modelled at a 0% US tariff scenario, Taoiseach Micheál Martin indicated this week that he didn’t think the numbers would change. But we’ll see as we get closer to October.

Here’s a rundown some of what we know already.