PFU representative Olena Zorka described how the issue of paying pension debts to internally displaced persons is regulated in Ukraine.
Some retirees who left because of the war in other parts of Ukraine may have problems with their pension payments. This can happen if, after moving, you do not register as an internally displaced person (IDP) with the social protection authorities at your current place of residence and do not receive an appropriate certificate. Therefore, the Pension Fund has announced whether the funds accumulated before the certificate is issued will be returned to retirees.
That is, according to Olena Zorka, Deputy Head of the Main Department of the Pension Fund of Ukraine in the Kiev region, if IDPs were accrued old-age pension in 2020, but the first payments begin in August of this year, then it is possible to receive funds accumulated for three years.
The mechanism for the payment of pensions to internally displaced persons not received during the month until the resumption of payments is determined by the procedure approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1165. At the same time, the accounting for pension payments payable is kept by the territorial bodies of the PFU, where citizens are registered.
Important
As stated by the representative of the Pension Fund, past payments, including accrued payments for the execution of court decisions that have entered into force, are made to the listed recipients as of January 1 of the relevant year.
Elena Zorka also emphasized that the amount of accrued pension from the date of her appointment until August 2023 can be paid from the state budget under a separate budget program stipulated in the 2024 budget of the Pension Fund of Ukraine.
In other words, pensions not paid in the past are calculated in the paying institution and are provided within the framework of a separate procedure determined by the government. To receive payment for immigrant pensioners, you need to write an application and contact the PFU at the new place of residence.
Pension in Ukraine: how many years of experience are needed in 2023
The old rules will apply to retirement this year. So, at the age of 60, Ukrainians with at least 30 years of experience behind them can go to a well-deserved rest. At the same time, 63-year-old Ukrainians need at least 20 years of experience, but 65-year-olds need at least 15 years of experience.
Citizens who do not have at least 15 years of work experience until the age of 65 will receive special social assistance from the state, the amount of which is at the subsistence level.
Indexing pensions in 2024
Annual indexation of pension payments could happen next year, despite the war. However, the specific timing of indexing is still unknown. As Social Policy Minister Oksana Zholnovich explained, the government now tends to believe that the indexation of pensions will take place in 2024.
“We did it this year. We will try it next year, but it’s hard to say what awaits us in the early spring after a tough winter, so we’re making plans for now, and life will show,” he stressed.
Note that from August 2023 Ukraine will pay new pensions to some citizens. We also remember that Ukrainians who do not have enough experience to retire by age can buy it if they make an agreement with the Pension Fund of Ukraine.
Source: Focus
John Holton is a seasoned author and journalist, known for his expertise in economics. He currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker, where he provides readers with in-depth analysis and commentary on the latest economic developments. With a background in finance and a talent for explaining complex economic concepts in a clear and accessible way, John’s writing is a must-read for anyone interested in staying informed about the economy.