Pensioners will need to return part of their payments: who is obliged to compensate the state for the money

In 2025, some Ukrainian pensioners must return part of the previously received payments. This applies to cases where individuals retired but officially found employment or opened an individual entrepreneur without informing the Pension Fund.

For most Ukrainians, the state pension is the primary source of income. However, in some situations, part of the funds must be compensated. According to Article 103 of the Law of Ukraine “On Pension Provision,” pensioners must notify the Pension Fund within 10 days of changes in their status—employment or registration of entrepreneurial activity.

Suppose this is not done on time, and this fact is established later. In that case, the excessively accrued amounts will be considered an overpayment, which must be returned to the state voluntarily or by automatic deduction from monthly payments.

The Pension Fund can withhold up to 20% of the monthly pension until the overpayment is fully repaid.

Given the gradual increase in the requirements for insurance experience (up to 35 years in 2028) and the possibility of working after retirement, such situations may occur more often.

It is worth noting that the government has revealed the details of a new pension payment scheme for internally displaced persons and Ukrainians living abroad. Now, pensions can be received not only through Sberbank but also with mandatory identification. The Cabinet of Ministers adopted a corresponding resolution to simplify and unify the payment procedure for all categories.