Winter thousand from December 1: what you can spend the money on and life hacks.

According to ТСН: Since December 1, the second wave of payments under the name 'winter thousand' has started in Ukraine. Applications can be submitted through the 'Diia' app until December 24, and at 'Ukrposhta' branches - until January 25. The funds should be used by June 30, 2026.

According to the Ministry of Digital Transformation, 80% of expenses go towards paying for utilities, and among other popular expenses - books, medical products, and charitable contributions to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Where can you spend the money?

Money from the 'winter thousand' should be used only for goods and services produced domestically:

• payment for utilities: electricity, gas, heating, water;

• food products: purchases in supermarkets and grocery stores;

• medicines and medical devices: purchases in pharmacies;

• books and other printed materials;

• postal services;

• charitable contributions to support the Armed Forces.

The calculation with the 'winter thousand' is based on MCC codes, which are approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. If the store code is on the list of allowed ones, the payment goes through successfully.

Allowed MCC codes

• 4900 - utilities

• 5411 - grocery stores and supermarkets

• 5499 - other food points (specialty stores, markets, vending machines)

• 5912 - pharmacies

• 5942, 5994 - books and printed publications

• 8398 - charitable organizations

• 9402 - postal services

Life hacks from Ukrainians

One user noted that at the 'Ukrposhta' branch, she tried to pay for a parcel with cash on delivery using the 'National Cashback' card, and the payment went through successfully. She bought yarn, although this item is not included in those allowed for payment with the 'winter thousand.'

In the comments, other users shared that they managed to pay for cosmetics in online stores, parcels at 'Ukrposhta,' and someone made purchases from 'Rozetka.' However, paying for food delivery, as was possible last year, is now impossible.

As previously reported, from November 22, changes were made to the 'National Cashback' program, which affected spending categories. New conditions will be in effect until June 30, 2026.

Currently, a cashback of 10% is accrued for the purchase of about 400,000 goods produced in Ukraine at partner retail points.

The 'winter thousand' program has become an important support for Ukrainians in conditions of economic instability. The state continues to seek ways to provide financial assistance, adapting programs to the needs of the population.