Russian Pensioners to Get Higher Payments: Who Qualifies and Amount

In Russia, social pensions will be indexed by 6.8% from April 1, 2026. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed this order in November 2025. We explain who can expect increased payments.

Who Receives a Social Pension

Social pensions are paid to those who cannot work and support themselves for various reasons. Specifically, payments are available to:

people with disabilities;

children in case of loss of a breadwinner (during incapacity for work up to 18 years or up to 23 years for full-time students);

old-age pensioners who lack sufficient work experience and pension points to qualify for an insurance pension. In 2026, it is available to men born in 1957 or earlier, and women born in 1962 or earlier.

Size of the Social Pension

«The average social pension in the country, according to the latest data, is slightly over 15,500 rubles (about $155 at current rates). After a 6.8 percent indexation, it will increase to approximately 16,500 rubles (about $165). For comparison: the basic old-age social pension after the increase will be about 9,400 rubles (about $94),» explained State Duma deputy Kaplan Panesh in a conversation with RIA Novosti.

Additionally, if after indexation the pension amount is below the regional subsistence minimum, the state will compensate the difference with a supplementary payment. In 2026, the federal subsistence minimum for pensioners is 16,288 rubles (about $163 at current rates).

Earlier, we reported on who will be able to retire in 2026. Also read about who is eligible for early retirement.