Early retirement for combatants: conditions and calculation of seniority

In Ukraine, military personnel who have participated in hostilities have the opportunity to receive a pension earlier, thanks to a special procedure for accounting for their service. This means that the time spent in the combat zone is credited three times faster.

According to the explanations of lawyers, under Article 17-1 of the Law “On Pension Provision for Persons Discharged from Military Service”, one month of service in combat conditions during martial law is equal to three months of service, provided that there is confirmation of at least one month of direct participation in the fighting. For example, a year at the front will be credited as three years of service.

The right to an early pension is available to male combat participants from the age of 55 (with 25 or more years of service) and to women from the age of 50 (with 20 or more years of service). Military service is fully credited to the insurance length of service, which allows them to retire earlier than other categories.

To receive such a pension, individuals must submit several documents, including a certificate, military ID, confirmation of service and participation in battles, work book, passport, identification number, and certificate of financial support. Submission of documents is possible through the Pension Fund of Ukraine portal or in person at a service center. In case of refusal, the decision can be appealed in court.

Additionally, participants in hostilities receive a monthly allowance equivalent to 25% of the subsistence minimum for those unable to work. If the pension is less than the minimum, the state compensates for the difference, in particular for war invalids of various groups.

It is essential to note that not everyone needs to work until the age of 60, as there are opportunities to retire earlier.

More detailed information on the requirements for documents for early retirement of veterans can be found in available sources.