Ukraine is changing its approach to humanitarian cash assistance. Instead of universal payments, a model is being introduced that takes into account the specific circumstances of people affected by the war. This involves priority-based cash assistance — a tool designed to respond more precisely to the needs of different population groups.
The new system began to be rolled out in 2026 and is gradually replacing the previous format of multi-purpose cash assistance. It is aimed at those who find themselves in difficult circumstances due to hostilities, displacement or loss of income.
How the new cash benefit scheme works
Priority-based financial assistance involves unconditional payments that people can use as they see fit. The funds are not earmarked for any specific purpose and are not restricted to a list of expenses. This allows households to decide for themselves what is essential—food, rent, medicines or other basic needs.
The programme is not a one-size-fits-all scheme. It is designed to adapt to specific life situations. The amount of payments and the duration of support depend on the circumstances in which a person finds themselves. This approach differs from the previous system, where a fixed amount was paid to all recipients.
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Who is eligible for the scheme?
Eligibility for assistance is determined not by status but by level of need. Decisions are made based on an assessment of the household’s situation, including living conditions, income and the impact of the war.
Assistance is available to people living near the front line, those who have been evacuated, those affected by shelling, and internally displaced persons in vulnerable situations. Particular attention is given to the elderly, people with disabilities and those with chronic illnesses.
However, not all applicants will receive payments. Selection is based on limited resources and the prioritisation of needs. If the situation changes, decisions may be reviewed.
Amounts of payments and duration of support
The amounts of assistance vary depending on the circumstances. For people living near the front line, monthly payments or a one-off sum are provided, totalling 10,800 hryvnias per person. Those who have been forced to evacuate or have suffered from shelling can receive a one-off payment of 12,300 hryvnias.
A separate category comprises internally displaced persons who have been outside active combat zones for a long time and do not receive state support. Monthly payments are provided for them, which may last for up to nine months.
The amounts are calculated based on an analysis of the cost of living, the actual subsistence minimum and socio-economic conditions in different regions.
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What can the benefit be spent on?
There are no restrictions on how the funds received may be used. People can spend them as they see fit, without having to provide any reports or undergo any scrutiny.
This approach is based on trust in the recipients and assumes that they themselves understand their needs best. At the same time, the programme is specifically designed to cover basic expenses, rather than major investments or specialist services.
Security and protection against fraud
Humanitarian financial assistance is provided free of charge. No payments, gifts or services may be a condition for receiving it.
Organisations do not ask for passwords, PIN codes or other confidential banking details. If such requests are made, it is a case of fraud.
Recipients are advised to use only official information channels and to verify sources before providing personal data.
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How transparency and data protection are ensured
Personal data is collected to assess needs and organise payments. It is stored in secure systems and used exclusively for humanitarian purposes.
Information may only be shared between organisations where strictly necessary and to a limited extent. The data is not used for political or military purposes and is not disclosed to third parties without good reason.
Why is the approach to aid changing?
The shift to targeted cash assistance is driven by the need to respond more effectively to the various consequences of the war. The universal model did not take into account the differences in people’s circumstances.
The new system allows resources to be directed where the need is greatest and ensures more flexible support. It also complements other forms of assistance, including state benefits and targeted programmes.
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