New Social Support in Ukraine: What is Basic Assistance and Who Qualifies
Starting from the second half of 2025, residents of Ukraine belonging to the most vulnerable groups will gain access to a newly introduced form of state support — basic social assistance. This initiative, developed by the government, is formalized through the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine Resolution No. 371 dated March 25, 2025. Its primary aim is to consolidate several existing social benefits into a unified system, ensuring targeted aid to those in greatest need. It is important to note that this project remains experimental, allowing families seeking support to choose between receiving the new basic assistance or continuing to access other social benefits they are entitled to. Eligibility for this aid encompasses a broad range of individuals. Ukrainian citizens, foreigners, and stateless persons who live permanently on Ukrainian territory can apply. Additionally, refugees and persons requiring additional protection recognized within Ukraine are also eligible. Starting from July 1, 2025, the following categories qualify: low-income families, single mothers, multi-child families, and individuals receiving aid due to unpaid alimony or inability to support themselves. Furthermore, from October 1, 2025, all other individuals meeting the set requirements, provided they are not on temporarily occupied territories or abroad, will be able to apply. The amount of the basic assistance is not fixed; it is calculated based on a special algorithm that determines the difference between the total family’s baseline amount and their average monthly income. The baseline amount per person stands at 4,500 UAH, with variations depending on the individual's circumstances. For the first family member, children under 18, or persons with disabilities of groups I or II, the full amount is allocated — 4,500 UAH. For additional family members, the benefit is 70% of the baseline, which is 3,150 UAH. Pensioners without insurance and those with less than 10 years of insured work experience receive reduced amounts, adjusted according to their years of contribution. A practical example: a family with two parents and two children, with a total monthly income of 12,000 UAH, would have a calculated basic entitlement of 4,650 UAH based on their circumstances. This sum reflects the difference between their assessed family need and actual income, providing vital support for households facing complex difficulties. Each year, certain categories of citizens will be eligible for additional payments around Ukraine Independence Day. In 2025, the mechanism for these one-time payments remains unchanged from the previous year — most beneficiaries will receive the payments automatically, but some, especially those not receiving pensions or not in service, must submit an application through the Pension Fund’s local offices to access these funds.