Thousands of retirees living in the mountainous regions of Ukraine have not received the financial support mandated by law for years. Many are even unaware of the existence of a special surcharge that could significantly improve their financial situation.
Compensation for harsh living conditions
According to the Law of Ukraine "On the Status of Mountain Settlements in Ukraine", the state provides residents of these territories with a 20% pension surcharge. This measure is intended to compensate for the specific and more difficult living conditions in the mountains: long and harsh winters, limited transport access, and the general inaccessibility of settlements.
It is important to understand that this payment is not automatic. The system does not credit it on its own, even if the retiree is officially registered in the corresponding region. To receive the money, one must personally apply to the local body of the Pension Fund of Ukraine.
Who is entitled to the supplement
The right to receive the 20% surcharge belongs not only to permanent residents of mountain villages. The list of recipients also includes internally displaced persons (IDPs), provided they actually reside in the mountainous area and meet the criteria established by law.
The surcharge applies to settlements in four regions of Ukraine. However, since the mechanism for appointing the payment requires active action from the retiree themselves, many citizens are deprived of legal funds for years simply because they do not know about the need to submit an application.
Other support options
Issues of pension provision in Ukraine remain relevant for a wide range of citizens. Previously, it was reported on categories of people who have the right to early retirement before reaching 60 years of age. This list includes participants in hostilities, mothers of many children, as well as persons with certain diseases provided they have the necessary insurance record.
The state has also provided social support measures for those who do not have a single day of insurance record. The amount of such assistance depends on the payment program and the presence of other factors that allow for meeting the basic needs of citizens.