How Ukrainians in Occupied Territories Can Prove They Don't Receive Russian Pensions

Social Support for Ukrainian Citizens in Temporarily Occupied Areas

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainians living in temporarily occupied territories (TOT) must provide documentary proof that they are not receiving similar benefits from Russia in order to qualify for pensions and insurance payments from Ukraine. The Main Directorate of the Pension Fund of Ukraine (PFU) in Vinnytsia region issued this clarification.

Requirements for Receiving Payments

Applicants must declare that they do not receive a pension from Russian pension authorities. This can be done through the PFU's online services portal, where a checkbox next to the statement 'I do not receive a pension from another state, including from the pension authorities of the Russian Federation' must be selected. Additionally, individuals must confirm they are not receiving insurance payments related to disability or loss of a breadwinner from any other state, particularly Russia.

Other ways to verify this status include:

• video identification, which does not require a separate application;
• a mark on standard forms at service centers;
• submitting documents by mail.

According to the PFU, 'if you live in temporarily occupied territories or have moved from them to government-controlled areas, pension and insurance payments are made only if you do not receive such payments from Russia.' Ukrainians can notify the PFU of their non-receipt of Russian benefits through any of the following methods: online, via video conference, by submitting an application at a service center, or by postal mail.

It is important to note that ignoring this requirement or being found to receive payments from Russia could lead to the suspension of Ukrainian benefits. Therefore, following all stated conditions is crucial to maintaining access to social support.

This information is vital for Ukrainian citizens in temporarily occupied areas, as it outlines the conditions for accessing social assistance. Since payments from Russia can significantly affect a person's financial situation, providing the necessary documentation is critical to avoiding complications with Ukraine's social welfare system. Citizens must be aware of and comply with these rules to ensure they do not lose their eligibility for support.