In Ukraine, certain categories of pensioners receive a monthly supplement to their basic pension, which has been 5,667.51 hryvnias since March 1, 2026. This payment is not granted based on age or insurance length, but for special merits to the state, primarily for participation in the struggle for Ukraine's independence in the 20th century. This is reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to the explanations from the Pension Fund of Ukraine.

What is this payment and who is eligible

The pension for special merits is established by the Law of Ukraine "On Pensions for Special Merits to Ukraine." Essentially, it is a supplement to the pension an individual already receives by law, not an independent pension. Eligibility is granted to, among others, fighters for Ukraine's independence in the 20th century who have been rehabilitated in accordance with the legislation on the rehabilitation of victims of the communist totalitarian regime's repression.

Who the law defines as rehabilitated

This concerns individuals who were subjected to political or religious repression: they were deprived of liberty or groundlessly and forcibly placed in psychiatric institutions by decisions of extrajudicial and other repressive bodies. It is the fact of rehabilitation and membership in the categories defined by law, not age or length of service, that entitle a person to the supplement.

Payment amount and review procedure

As of March 1, 2026, the amount of the supplement for eligible independence fighters is 5,667.51 hryvnias per month. Unlike a standard pension, this payment is not tied to age or insurance record. Its amount is reviewed annually using an increase coefficient, so the sum may change from year to year.

Related mechanisms: overtime service supplement

One can also receive a supplement for overtime insurance length: for every full year exceeding 35 years for men and 30 years for women, the pension amount increases by 1%. For pensions granted before October 1, 2011, the threshold is lower — 25 years for men and 20 years for women.

Ukrainians abroad can buy insurance service years

As RBC-Ukraine previously reported, Ukrainians currently abroad can purchase insurance service years by signing an electronic agreement with the Pension Fund of Ukraine. The minimum contribution in 2026 is 1,902.34 hryvnias, and it can be paid online via any bank card.