Ukrainian Pension Fund to Halt Payments in 2026 for Unverified Recipients.

Upcoming Changes to Ukraine's Pension System

According to TSN.ua: Ukraine's Pension Fund has announced it will stop pension payments starting January 1, 2026, for individuals who fail to complete mandatory physical identification procedures by December 31, 2025. This policy, detailed by the Pension Fund's Main Directorate in the Sumy region, represents a significant step in the ongoing reform of the country's social security framework. This move is part of a broader digital transformation of public services in Ukraine.

Available Methods for Physical Identification

Citizens have several options to complete the required physical identification:

• The first method involves using an electronic signature via the 'Diia.Pidpys' platform. Individuals must log into their personal account on the Pension Fund portal, authenticate through the 'Pension Fund' mobile app, complete a photo identification process, and enter a five-digit code.
• A second option is to undergo identification via video conference. Citizens can submit an application on the Pension Fund portal, call the contact center, select a video conferencing platform, and then present their identity document at the scheduled time.
• For those residing abroad, identification is possible through Ukrainian diplomatic missions. This requires obtaining a certificate of being alive, which must then be mailed as an original document to a territorial body of the Pension Fund or uploaded as a scanned copy via the portal using a qualified electronic signature.
• Individuals within government-controlled territory can visit a Pension Fund service center or an authorized bank in person with their passport. This will fulfill all necessary requirements for the continuation of pension payments.

These measures are designed to improve the system for registering pensioners and ensure uninterrupted payments for those who comply with all requirements.

This decision forms part of a comprehensive reform of Ukraine's pension system, aimed at enhancing management and oversight of beneficiaries. The introduction of physical identification is intended to reduce fraud risks and provide more effective control over pension disbursements. Citizens who successfully meet the new requirements will be able to continue receiving their pensions without interruption.