Minimum wage and living wage: what payments will Ukrainians receive from May 1

Since the beginning of 2026, key social indicators have been updated in Ukraine – the minimum wage and the subsistence minimum.

These indicators have a significant impact on most payments, taxes and fines, so they are periodically revised taking into account the economic situation in the country. In particular, it is reported that from May 1, 2026, the new amounts will remain relevant.

The state of the minimum wage in May

According to the state budget for 2026, the minimum wage will be 8,647 UAH per month, and the hourly rate will be 52 UAH. This amount is the basis for calculations in many areas, including salaries, tax obligations and fines.

The following mandatory deductions are provided for from this amount:

military duty – 5% (432.35 UAH);

personal income tax – 18% (1,556.46 UAH).
After taxes, the actual payment will be approximately UAH 6,658.19. According to the law, the employer has no right to pay less than this amount if the employee has worked the full norm. In the case of part-time work, payment is made proportionally.

Subsistence minimum from May 1

The subsistence minimum, which was increased from January 1, will remain at the same level from May. According to the Pension Fund of Ukraine, the average indicator will be UAH 3,209, which is UAH 289 more compared to last year.

The following amounts have been established for certain groups of the population:

children under 6 years old – UAH 2,817;
children from 6 to 18 years old – UAH 3,512;
able-bodied persons – UAH 3,328;
pensioners and persons with disabilities – UAH 2,595.
The increase in the subsistence minimum has affected social benefits, in particular, minimum pensions, assistance to low-income families, and payments upon the birth of a child. The change in this indicator is significant for determining the maximum base for calculating the single social contribution, as well as increasing financial support for families with children.