Ukraine's 2026 Disability Pension Reforms: New Payment Rates and Group 1 Benefits.

Ukraine's Pension System Update

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine will implement updated pension payments for people with disabilities in February 2026, including specific provisions for those classified under Group 1. These changes establish new minimum pension amounts and benefits for eligible citizens. Starting January 1, 2026, the minimum pension for non-working individuals will be 2,595 UAH. For individuals with Group 1 disability resulting from war-related injuries, the minimum pension payment will be set at 16,847 UAH. These reforms are part of ongoing adjustments to the social safety net amidst the country's economic challenges.

Payment Tiers for Different Disability Groups

The pension amount for people with disabilities is determined based on their assigned group. Individuals in Group 2 will receive 90% of the standard age-related pension, while those in Group 3 will receive 50%. For combat veterans, the minimum pension payment will be 5,528 UAH. Furthermore, new minimum pensions for individuals whose disability resulted from the Chornobyl disaster will be introduced from March 1, 2025:

• Group 1 — 9,855.71 UAH
• Group 2 — 7,884.57 UAH
• Group 3 — 6,077.69 UAH

Liquidators of the Chornobyl (ChNPP) accident with a Group 1 disability will receive a minimum pension of 17,486.60 UAH.

Benefits for people with Group 1 disability in 2026 will include:

• Free or 50% discounted prescription medications;
• Free travel on municipal public transport;
• One annual round-trip ticket for individuals with Group 1 disability who are over 85 years old.

Consequently, the new payment levels and benefits are designed to enhance social security for people with disabilities in Ukraine.

The update to pension payments and benefits for people with disabilities, particularly Group 1, represents a significant step in strengthening social support during a difficult economic period in Ukraine.

The increase in minimum pension amounts and the introduction of new benefits aim to provide a better quality of life for those requiring special state attention. Such initiatives may not only bolster social protection but also help build public confidence in the nation's social security framework.