New rules for the one-time payment for Independence Day

In anticipation of the state holiday — Independence Day of Ukraine, which will be celebrated on August 24, 2026, the Pension Fund of Ukraine (PFU) has updated information regarding the categories of citizens eligible to receive one-time financial assistance. According to current data from the department, the payment is intended to support the most vulnerable layers of the population. This year, the list of recipients includes participants in combat operations, war veterans, persons with disabilities, orphans, as well as pensioners whose income does not exceed the subsistence minimum established by law.

It is important to note that the procedure for receiving funds in 2026 has been significantly simplified. Citizens who have previously received similar payments do not need to submit new applications if their status has not changed. However, for those claiming the benefit for the first time, it is necessary to submit an application through the «Dія» portal or visit a PFU branch in person. The deadline for submitting documents is August 20, 2026.

Can the money be spent on paying utility bills?

One of the most relevant questions for Ukrainians in the current economic conditions is the possibility of using the one-time payment to cover debts on utility payments. Many citizens fear that the funds may be frozen or have a specific purpose that excludes paying bills for gas, water, or electricity.

Lawyer Yevhen Bulymenko, commenting on the situation for RBC-Ukraine, gave an unequivocal answer: the legislation contains no restrictions on the expenditure of these funds. «The legislation contains no restrictions, target limitations, or prohibitions on the expenditure of these funds», — emphasized the lawyer. This means that recipients have the full right to direct the received amount towards paying utility bills, purchasing food, medicine, or covering other household expenses.

Who will definitely receive the payment in 2026

According to official data from the Pension Fund, the following categories of citizens will receive the Independence Day payment in 2026:

  • Participants in combat operations and their family members;
  • War veterans;
  • Persons with disabilities of all groups;
  • Orphans and children left without parental care;
  • Pensioners whose total income does not exceed the subsistence minimum.

The amount of the payment in 2026 is 2000 hryvnias per person. The funds will be transferred to the bank cards or postal accounts of recipients between August 25 and August 30, 2026.

Contradictory data

Although official sources confirm the absence of restrictions on the use of funds, some regional PFU branches in their explanations indicate that the payment is «social support» and should be used «for its intended purpose». This creates certain confusion among citizens who may fear checks by regulatory authorities.

However, as lawyer Bulymenko notes, such formulations are of a recommendatory nature and have no legal force. In the event of disputes, courts generally side with the recipient, as the law does not explicitly prohibit the use of funds for any needs.

How to submit an application online

To submit an application for the payment in 2026, you need to visit the «Dія» portal or the Pension Fund of Ukraine website. In your personal cabinet, select the «Social Payments» section, fill out the questionnaire, and attach scans of the necessary documents (passport, pension certificate, income statement, etc.). After verifying the data, the application will be approved within 3–5 working days.

Citizens who do not have access to the internet are recommended to visit the nearest PFU branch or contact a social worker. The possibility of submitting an application through the Centers for Administrative Services (MFC) is also preserved for all categories of recipients.