National cashback can no longer be spent on mobile communications, cinema tickets, etc. Why is this?

Ukraine has changed the rules for using funds under the National Cashback programme: now, money cannot be spent on mobile communications, cinema, transport, and other entertainment. The restrictions were introduced to synchronise the cashback programme with the Winter Support programme, which will also receive state payments. The state wants to direct these funds primarily to the basic and necessary expenses of citizens. Find out which categories are now available and how the updated rules will affect users

Legal advice for Ukrainians

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Ukrainians have been temporarily restricted in the categories on which they can spend funds accrued under the National Cashback programme. The money can no longer be used to pay for mobile communications, cinema, theatre, transport, fitness, leisure and other entertainment services. The decision raised many questions, and the Ministry of Economy explained why such changes were necessary.

According to the ministry, the update to the rules is related to the synchronisation of the programme with the state initiative Winter Support. At the end of November, Ukrainians will begin to receive additional payments of 1,000 hryvnia, which will be credited to the same National Cashback card. To ensure that both programmes work correctly, it was decided to unify the categories of expenses and focus on basic, essential expenses.

What can be purchased with National Cashback

Until 30 June 2026, National Cashback funds can only be used for essential needs. In particular, the following categories are permitted:

— utilities;

— postal services;

— food in shops and supermarkets;

— medicines and medical products;

— books and printed materials;

— charity, including donations to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other funds.

Some of the updates have already come into effect: you can spend your accumulated funds on medicines, medical supplies, and books right now.

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Why was the list of goods restricted?

The ministry emphasises that this adjustment will allow state support to be focused on truly important expenses. This is especially relevant in winter and when families are under increased financial strain.

According to the Ministry of Economy, more than 7.5 million Ukrainians participate in the National Cashback programme, and the total amount of accruals has already exceeded UAH 4 billion — and the correct distribution of these funds is now one of the priorities of the state's social policy.

Reminder! A new programme called ‘Winter Support’ has been launched in Ukraine, allowing the most vulnerable categories of the population to receive a one-time benefit of UAH 6,500. The state has opened two convenient ways to apply — through the ‘Dія’ app and at Pension Fund offices — and the funds themselves can only be used for socially important purchases. Find out who is eligible for the payment and how to apply.

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