What to spend 1,000 hryvnia of winter aid on: a list of goods and services

The winter support programme is once again helping Ukrainians cope with seasonal expenses: the state credits 1,000 hryvnia to a special account, and these funds can only be spent on certain categories. In 2025–2026, the rules became stricter, so it is important to understand which purchases are actually allowed. Find out what exactly you can spend your winter thousand on

Legal advice for Ukrainians

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The ‘winter support’ programme continues to operate in Ukraine, under which every citizen can receive payments of 1,000 hryvnia. Parents can also apply for assistance for their children. The programme is valid until 30 June 2026, and the funds are credited to a special account — ‘National Cashback’. This account can be used to pay for a limited list of goods and services.

Due to the updated conditions, the winter thousand can now be spent on a narrower list of categories. Therefore, Ukrainians should think carefully about where to spend the money in order to get the most benefit.

Where can the winter thousand be spent?

The Ministry of Economy has published a complete list of areas where both winter support funds and money from the National Cashback programme can be spent. Both mechanisms now operate under the same rules.

The thousand hryvnias can be used to pay for:

1. Utility services.

Electricity, gas, heating, or water bills are among the most popular areas of spending, especially in winter when costs increase. The thousand hryvnias will partially offset these expenses.

2. Postal services.

Payment for parcel delivery, receipt of shipments, and delivery services. This is convenient for those who actively use Ukrposhta or other services.

3. Food.

One thousand hryvnias can significantly help with weekly expenses: buying basic foods, vegetables, cereals, groceries, or everyday goods.

Starting December 11, the “Winter Thousand” can be spent on food. This was reported by the Ministry of Social Policy. The first to take advantage of this will be shoppers at Silpo, Fora, THRASH, Fozzy, and Blyzenko. The list of retail chains will expand, with other grocery stores joining the program later.

4. Medicines and medical products.

This includes pharmacy drugs, vitamins, medical products (dressings, tests, care products). This is an important category in winter, when the incidence of illness traditionally increases.

5. Printed products.

The funds can be used for books, magazines, and newspapers. This option is especially relevant for those who purchase educational literature or developmental materials for children.

6. Charity.

Donations to charitable foundations, including aid to the army, are permitted. The state officially confirms that winter aid can be directed to support Ukrainian defenders.

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What you need to know about the payment

The money is credited to the National Cashback account, combining two programmes: accruals for the purchase of Ukrainian goods and winter assistance. The funds can only be spent within Ukraine — payments are available to citizens who are not abroad.

You can receive 1,000 hryvnia:

▪️ through the ‘Dія’ app (after updating to the latest version);

▪️ at Ukrposhta branches.

Reminder! A new winter support programme is being launched in Ukraine. This step will be part of a set of government initiatives aimed at supporting the population during the cold season. Find out who is eligible for the payment, how to apply, and when the funds will be credited.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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