From July 1, Disability Support in Ukraine Will Change: Here’s What to Know
Starting July 1, 2025, Ukraine is introducing a new system for processing and delivering social assistance to people with disabilities. The core change isn’t about the amount of money paid it’s about who is responsible, how the system works, and how people apply.
At first glance, it may seem like just another bureaucratic update. But in reality, this change reflects a deeper shift toward centralization, digitization, and potentially greater access and accountability.
Who handles disability benefits now?
Until now, social support for people with disabilities in Ukraine was managed by local social protection departments. But according to Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 695 of June 11, 2025, this responsibility will now fall under the Pension Fund of Ukraine (PFU).
This includes:
- Monthly support payments for adults with disabilities (Groups I–III);
- Support for children with disabilities;
- Allowances for caregivers;
- Financial assistance for people who are not eligible for a pension;
- Funeral payments for those eligible.
What changes: from July 1, citizens will no longer go to social services they’ll deal directly with the Pension Fund, which now manages applications, eligibility, and payments.
One application, multiple ways to apply
A major improvement is the introduction of a single unified application for all types of disability-related support. Previously, different benefits required different forms and had to be submitted through different offices.
Now, people can apply:
- In person at any PFU service center (regardless of place of registration);
- Through local administrative service centers (ЦНАП);
- By mail;
- Online via the PFU’s e-services portal fully operational from September 1, 2025.
For example, someone with Group II disability who used to receive monthly assistance through local social offices can now submit a single application online and receive payments directly from the PFU no in-person visits required.
Will the benefit amounts change?
No. Payment amounts remain the same, as defined in Ukrainian law:
- “On State Social Assistance to Persons with Disabilities from Childhood and to Children with Disabilities”;
- “On State Social Assistance to Persons Who Are Not Entitled to a Pension”.
A joint statement from the Ministry of Social Policy and PFU confirms:
“The transition of responsibility does not affect benefit amounts. All payments are made in full, as previously determined by law.”
So, for example, if someone currently receives UAH 2,300/month, that amount will not change after July 1 only the responsible authority and application method will.
New requirement: identity verification
Alongside the system transition, the PFU is launching mandatory identity verification for all current beneficiaries. Those who already receive disability-related benefits must confirm their identity by October 1, 2025.
This can be done:
- In person at a PFU service center;
- Through the upcoming PFU mobile app (expected in September);
- Via a designated family representative, if the person cannot appear personally.
If a person fails to verify by the deadline, their payments may be temporarily suspended until verification is complete.
This poses a challenge for people with limited mobility or those living in remote areas making early verification essential.
What about the extra UAH 3,250 benefit?
There’s a separate, additional support program for people who meet the criteria of the World Food Programme (WFP). If a person with a disability has no other source of income or is in a particularly vulnerable category, they may be eligible for up to UAH 3,250 per month in additional assistance.
This benefit is managed separately often through local governments or humanitarian partners and can be received in parallel with regular state support.
Why this matters
- It’s about system efficiency, not savings.
The PFU already manages millions of pension accounts, has a nationwide digital infrastructure, and is better positioned to process payments efficiently and transparently. - Less paperwork, fewer barriers.
One application, multiple channels, online access this could significantly reduce the bureaucratic burden for applicants. - It centers accessibility if done right.
For people with disabilities, access is not just about comfort it’s a necessity. The success of this reform will be measured not in press releases, but in real-world usability.
From July 1, 2025, the Pension Fund of Ukraine becomes the central body for disability-related social payments. This reform brings:
- Simplified application processes;
- Continued benefit amounts;
- Digital options for remote submission;
- Required identity checks by October 1.
Whether this shift will truly reduce bureaucracy or simply move it to a new office depends on how the system is implemented and whether accessibility remains the core priority. For many Ukrainians with disabilities, this is a chance for more dignity and fewer barriers. But only if the system works for them, not just around them.
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