BUDGET 2013 WAS announced on 5 December but some of the measures revealed by ministers Michael Noonan  and Brendan Howlin only came into effect today.

Most of the consumer-related changes, such as the tax hike on cigarettes and alcohol, were implemented immediately but these measures kick in from today:

• PRSI changes (except PRSI changes to ‘unearned income’ which will not come in until 2014);
• The reduced rate of Universal Social Charge for those over 70 with an income in excess of €60,000 will be discontinued;
• Child benefit payments will be cut by €10 per child for the first and second child, and by €18 for the third child;
• The rates of both VRT and Motor Tax across all categories will increase;
• Capital acquisitions tax increase and threshold reduction;
• Capital gains tax changes for farm land;
• The increase in the Prescription levy from 50c to €1.50;
• Excise duty on the purchase of vehicles;
• The 19 per cent reduction in respite carer grants;
• Reduced payment periods for jobseeker benefit claimants.

BUDGET 2013: Here is what happened>

Read: Budget 2013: the main points from the December announcements>