The Ministry of Economy has banned spending the winter thousand on mobile communication: what else has been excluded.

According to ТСН: The implementation of the state program of financial assistance "Winter Support" continues in Ukraine. Although the deadline for applications for the "winter thousand" has passed, the funds can be spent until June 30, 2026.

You may be wondering if these funds can be used to top up a mobile account. According to the program's conditions, the "winter thousand" can only be spent cashless — via the "National Cashback" card or at "Ukrposhta" branches using a special account.

Please note that expenditures are limited and allowed only for certain categories, including:

• purchase of books;
• medicines and medical products;
• food products (excluding excise goods);
• payment for "Ukrposhta" services;
• utilities (gas, electricity, water, heating).

Can the mobile account be topped up

Last year, it was possible to use this financial assistance to top up a mobile account. However, the Ministry of Economy updated the list of allowed services under the "National Cashback" program, excluding the possibility of topping up the mobile balance.

The ministry explains that the main condition of the program is targeted use of funds. The government aims to ensure that state funds are spent on essential needs, preventing the use of the "winter thousand" for mobile communication.

It is also known that last year it was possible to pay for transport, attend cinemas, and subscribe to paid television, but these categories are now excluded from the list.

In addition, a part of Ukrainians will receive the "winter thousand" in January. Those who submitted applications after December 16 will receive payments of 1000 UAH at the beginning of January. The government also reported a record number of applications — 18 million citizens have requested assistance.

This program is an important support tool for Ukrainians amid economic challenges. The money received by citizens can significantly ease the financial burden during the winter period, and the restrictions on the use of assistance are designed to ensure the effectiveness of support. The established rules aim to focus attention on vital needs that truly require financial support.