The Pension Fund of Ukraine has clarified that official employment does not deprive a student of the right to a survivor's pension. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to the agency's clarification. At the same time, the preservation of the pension depends on two conditions: the form of study and the age of the recipient. The clarification specifically concerns full-time students who continue to receive their assigned payments in full even if they have a job and a salary.
Who is eligible for a survivor's benefit
The right to such a pension belongs to the children of a deceased breadwinner who are studying full-time. This type of education includes school, vocational institutions, and higher education. The legal basis for granting the payment is the Law of Ukraine «On Compulsory State Pension Insurance», which defines the categories of individuals entitled to a survivor's pension.
Two key conditions: form of study and age
The money is paid until the completion of studies, but no longer than the age of 23. For orphans, the rule is relaxed: the payment is maintained until the age of 23 regardless of whether they are currently studying or not. Thus, a full-time student under 23 continues to receive the assigned payment in full even if they work. It is precisely the combination of full-time education and being under 23 that guarantees the retention of the pension right.
Does official employment and salary affect the pension
According to the clarification by the Pension Fund of Ukraine, official employment and wages do not affect the right to receive this pension. Having an employment contract and receiving income from an employer are not grounds for suspending or terminating the payment. This means that a full-time student under 23 can combine their studies with work without losing their assigned survivor's pension.
The obligation to report changes within 10 days
At the same time, the Pension Fund reminds citizens of the obligation to report changes affecting the payment within 10 days. Such changes include employment, registration as a sole proprietor (FOP), a change of surname, and traveling abroad. Failure to report them on time may lead to a recalculation of the pension, and part of the funds already paid will have to be returned. Therefore, even while retaining the right to the payment, it is important for the student to notify the agency in a timely manner about new circumstances.
How to confirm work experience without a work book
Separately, RBC-Ukraine noted that Soviet-era work experience can be confirmed without a work book through archival certificates. If such documents are missing, the experience is established based on the testimonies of at least two colleagues. This mechanism is useful when processing and reviewing pension payments, including for individuals whose work experience was formed during the Soviet period and is not reflected in standard employment documents.
