Social Pension in 2026: Prospects and Expectations for Ukrainians
According to Ukrainian legal and governmental sources, significant increases in social pensions for pensioners unable to work are anticipated in the near future.
Currently, Ukrainians who have reached retirement age can receive not only insurance pensions but also social benefits in cases of insufficient insurance стаж or other grounds.
This issue gains particular relevance amid legislative changes that are set to take effect in 2026.
Lawyer Olga Brus, in an interview with UNIAN, explained that the government plans to implement this pension increase through the new budget declaration for 2026–2028.
This document outlines the principles of the budget policy and key indicators of the state budget.
The social pension is expected to grow because it depends directly on the subsistence minimum for non-working citizens.
As per government decisions, the subsistence minimum for non-working persons will be increased from 2361 hryvnias to 2564 hryvnias in 2026, which represents an approximate increase of 203 hryvnias.
Consequently, social pensions could potentially increase by this amount, significantly improving the living standards of the most vulnerable segments.
Moreover, insurance стаж accumulated abroad by Ukrainians will be included when determining eligibility for retirement pensions in Ukraine, expanding opportunities for those with international work experience.
These developments indicate the government’s intention to support marginalized groups and ensure a dignified living standard in the future.