On January 29, a new state subsidy program for internally displaced persons (IDPs) is launched in Ukraine, aimed at helping renting a home. The initiative aims to support displaced persons who suffered from the war, do not have their own housing and are forced to rent a living space. However, like every state program, this has its own peculiarities and restrictions.
Who can get a subsidy?
The subsidy is provided only for certain categories of immigrants:
- Those who left temporarily occupied territories or zones of active hostilities.
- Persons whose housing was destroyed or became uninhabitable.
- IDPs who do not receive monthly payments for IDPs (3,000 UAH for persons with disabilities and children, 2,000 UAH for other categories).
- Those who have signed an official housing rental agreement.
The subsidy will not be received by resettled persons who rent housing from relatives or from owners participating in the "Shelter" program.
The size of the subsidy will be determined individually, depending on the income of the family, the number of its members, the cost of rent in the region and other factors. The main condition is that rent expenses must exceed 20% of the family's total income.
To apply for a subsidy, the following are mandatory:
- Official lease agreement.
- Statement of prescribed form.
- If necessary, documents confirming special circumstances (guardianship, care, etc.).
Documents can be submitted both at the Pension Fund service center and online through the PFU electronic services portal.
Benefits of the program
- Legal protection of IDPs. The conclusion of an official lease agreement prevents sudden eviction or unjustified rent increases.
- Benefits for landlords. The state will compensate the tax rate, which should stimulate homeowners to legalize contracts.
- Program flexibility. The subsidy applies to all regions of Ukraine, while previously it was only available in 9 pilot regions.
Not all resettled people will be able to receive this assistance, because the conditions of the program are quite strict. In particular, the need for a formal rental agreement can become an obstacle due to the reluctance of some landlords to register agreements.
The Cabinet of Ministers expects that the new program will not only help displaced people, but also create transparent conditions for the rental market. Participants of the program will be able to count on stability and protection of their rights, while the state plans to attract more landlords to the legalization of their activities.
If you fall under the criteria of the program, don't waste time, because the subsidy will start in the coming days.
