Parents of future first-graders in Ukraine have the opportunity to apply for new state support. This year, a one-time payment of 5,000 UAH can be received to prepare a child for school. This is a special program designed to help families get children ready for the start of the academic year.

Who is eligible for the payment

The right to receive funds from the "School Starter Pack" is granted to one of the parents or the legal representative of the child. Applications can also be submitted by authorized representatives of family-type children's homes, foster families, and institutions for orphans and children deprived of parental care. Individuals in whose families a child is temporarily placed also have the right to the payment.

It is important to note that if one parent has already submitted an application, a subsequent application by the other parent regarding the same child will not be considered. In the event of a dispute between parents, the decision on the payment will be made only after the conflict is resolved.

How to submit an application

The fastest and most convenient way to apply is through the "Diia" mobile app. After submitting the application, the Pension Fund of Ukraine automatically verifies the data and notifies the applicant about the possibility of receiving the payment. If it is impossible to use the digital service, the application can be submitted in paper form at any Pension Fund service center.

In some cases, the applicant may need to provide additional documents confirming the powers of the legal representative or the status of the child. "Diia" clarified that the "School Starter Pack" service has not yet been launched, but its launch is expected soon. Users are advised to follow updates on official resources.

Features of using the funds

The payment is provided exclusively in non-cash form. The funds are credited to a special bank account and can be used only for purchasing goods necessary for a first-grader. Purchases can be made from legal entities and individual entrepreneurs.

There is a strict deadline for using the funds — 180 days from the date of crediting to the account. If part of the money remains unused after this period, the bank will return the balance to the Pension Fund of Ukraine.

Impact on other social payments

The Pension Fund of Ukraine reminded that the amount of the benefit under the "School Starter Pack" program is not taken into account when calculating the family's total income. This means that receiving 5,000 UAH will not affect the assignment of other types of state social assistance, including housing subsidies.

Results of the previous year

The program has already proven its effectiveness. Last year, more than 200,000 first-graders used the "School Starter Pack" services. Assistance was arranged for almost 99% of families eligible for it. Most often, parents spent the received funds on children's clothing, school supplies, and footwear.

Applications for the payment must be submitted by November 15, 2026. The program is administered by the Pension Fund of Ukraine.