Yaroslavl residents to receive higher utility bills in February

In February, Yaroslavl residents will receive higher utility bills. This is due to an increase in utility tariffs effective January 1, 2026.

«The average index for changes in citizens» utility payments has been set at 1.7% for all regions of the Russian Federation. This change is due to an increase in the basic rate of value-added tax (VAT) from 20% to 22%,« explained the Ministry of Tariff Regulation of Yaroslavl Region.

Authorities emphasized that the total payment for residents for utility services will increase by the specified amount, which includes charges for heating, cold and hot water, wastewater disposal, electricity, gas, and solid municipal waste (SMW) management.

However, as noted by the Ministry of Tariff Regulation, in Yaroslavl Region, there will be no increase in tariffs for SMW management.

«This is because the regional operator for SMW management — Khartiya LLC — is exempt from paying VAT,» explained officials.

VAT is an indirect tax. It is calculated by the seller when selling goods, performing work, providing services, or transferring property rights to the buyer. VAT is paid on the difference between costs and revenue received. From January 1, 2026, the basic VAT rate in Russia increased from 20% to 22%. At the same time, the minimum annual income threshold for VAT accrual has been lowered. Previously, it was 60 million rubles (approximately $600,000 at current rates). Now it is 10 million rubles (approximately $100,000 at current rates).

In addition, from January 1 in Yaroslavl, tariffs for housing maintenance and repair have also increased. This increase will also be seen in the bills that arrive in February.

Recall that in 2026, Yaroslavl residents will also face a second tariff increase — it is scheduled for October 1. It is expected that from this date, utility payments will increase by an average of 14%.