Payment for signing the first contract in 2025

On February 11, 2025, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted Resolution № 153, which launched a pilot project to increase motivation for military service. The most discussed provision of the document was the enshrinement of the right of certain categories of military personnel to a one-time bonus of 1 million hryvnias.

According to the resolution, the following persons have the right to such financial support:

• enlisted personnel (soldiers, senior soldiers)
• representatives of the sergeant and petty officer ranks

However, to receive a reward, you must meet three basic conditions:

1. The contract was signed or the conscription took place during martial law.
2. As of February 13, 2025, the service member was under 25 years of age.
3. There is confirmed participation in combat for at least six months.

That is, the state clearly places an emphasis on supporting young soldiers who, despite their age, demonstrate courage and readiness to defend the country in times of greatest danger.

If a soldier spent less than six months at the front

Legislators took into account that not all military personnel can fulfill the requirement for a full six months of combat service. This may be due to injuries, concussions, serious illnesses, or other circumstances directly related to combat missions.

A fair mechanism is in place for such situations:

• the compensation is calculated proportionally to the time spent in combat;
• the formula is simple: 1/6 of 1 million hryvnias for every 30 days of service in the combat zone;
• the total period of service is taken into account, even if it was interrupted by rotations or treatment.

For example, a soldier who fought for three months will receive half the amount—approximately 500,000 hryvnias. This decision avoids injustice and supports those who gave their all in the given circumstances.

Procedure for receiving remuneration

To qualify for the payment, a service member must submit a report to their unit's command. The document must include:

• the specific clause of Cabinet of Ministers Resolution № 153 on which the right is based;
• detailed military service records;
• supporting documents confirming participation in combat operations – these may include extracts from orders, certificates, copies of combat orders, and commanders' reports.

Documentary evidence is key: without it, even a legal right may remain only on paper.

Can former military personnel apply?

Yes, this right also applies to those who have already retired from the Armed Forces. The decree does not contain any restrictions regarding a service member's current status. The main conditions are:

• the contract was signed before reaching age 25;
• actual participation in combat operations was confirmed.

Thus, even former soldiers who have fulfilled the conditions have a legal right to receive one million hryvnias.

However, difficulties arise in practice. Military units often refuse, citing a lack of clear instructions or internal regulations. In these cases, the only viable recourse is to go to court.

Time limits for appealing a refusal

It's important to take this procedural point into account: you can only appeal a payment denial within six months. If this deadline is missed, the court has the right to refuse to open proceedings.

Therefore, don't delay: prepare your documents immediately, seek legal assistance, and protect your rights.

Why is this payment important?

The introduction of a reward of one million hryvnias has several implications:

1. Material support is significant financial assistance that can support a service member and their family.
2. Moral support is the state's gratitude to those who volunteered to defend the country at a young age.
3. Motivational support is setting an example for future generations of Ukrainians choosing military service.

This is not just money - it is recognition that the contribution of young fighters to victory will not go unnoticed.

Resolution No. 153 opens up real opportunities for young military personnel to receive a one-time payment of 1 million hryvnias. If a military unit unreasonably refuses payment, it is important to know your rights and assert them promptly, including in court.

Therefore, every soldier who meets the conditions has a legal right to financial support. This is not only a manifestation of the state's concern but also an important step toward fostering a new culture of respect for the Ukrainian soldier.

If you need a consultation with a lawyer regarding military benefits, please fill out the form on the website and a lawyer will contact you shortly.