PENSION IN CASE OF BREADWINNER’S DEATH: WHO IS ELIGIBLE AND HOW TO APPLY? ✅ SOCIAL ISSUES ✅ SERVICES

The person's eligibility for a survivor's pension is assessed
The deceased breadwinner’s employment or insurance history is verified
Family composition is analyzed to determine who may claim the benefit
Application deadlines are calculated based on the date of death
A list of required documents for application is prepared

Certified copies of the required documents are prepared
Requests for additional certificates from state institutions are issued
An application for a civil registry extract is filled out
Power of attorney is drafted if a representative is submitting the application
All documents are reviewed for accuracy before submission

The application for pension is submitted to the appropriate Pension Fund office
The full document package is submitted either in person or online
A written confirmation of receipt is obtained
The registration of the case is checked in the Pension Fund database
Compliance with application review deadlines is monitored

Pension in case of breadwinner’s death: who is eligible and how to apply

A survivor’s pension is provided to disabled family members of the deceased who were financially dependent on them. This may include children under 18 (or up to 23 if they are in full-time education), parents of retirement age or with disabilities, and a spouse who is also considered disabled. Individuals who care for the deceased’s children under the age of 8 are also eligible.

The main eligibility criterion is the presence of sufficient work or pension insurance history on the part of the deceased breadwinner. If the deceased lacked the required work record, a social allowance may be granted instead.

It is important to apply for the pension as soon as possible after the death, since the timing of the application can affect the date from which payments will begin.

How to apply for a survivor’s pension?

The application process consists of several steps: preparing the necessary documents, submitting the application to the Pension Fund, waiting for a decision, and receiving the payment appointment. Key documents include the death certificate, proof of family relationship, income and employment records of the deceased, and proof of the applicant’s disability or inability to work.
The application can be submitted in person, by an authorized representative, or online via the Pension Fund’s electronic services. It is crucial to correctly prepare all documents, as errors may result in refusal or delays in payment.
In case of refusal, one can appeal to the court, especially if the denial was unjustified or due to procedural violations.

What is the amount and duration of payments?

The pension amount depends on the number of dependents, the work history of the deceased, and their average salary. Typically, it is 50% of the deceased’s pension per dependent but not less than the statutory minimum. If there are multiple dependents, the total pension is divided among them.
Payments are made monthly until the right to receive them expires—for example, when a child reaches legal age or finishes studies. People with disabilities or elderly individuals may receive the pension for life.
Pensions are indexed annually in line with inflation. If circumstances change—such as employment or marriage—the recipient must notify the Pension Fund.

Conclusion

A survivor’s pension is a vital social benefit granted to the dependent, disabled family members of the deceased. Its amount and duration depend on family circumstances, cause of death, and the number of eligible dependents. To correctly apply, one must contact the Pension Fund or submit an online application with all required documents.

On the Consultant Legal Marketplace platform, you can easily find a lawyer to assist with the pension application process, document review, and formal submission—ensuring the fastest and most lawful receipt of your payments.

Reviews
From Real Users

Andrii

05.09.2025

I turned to legal help when I couldn’t manage to apply for a pension for my mother after my father’s death. The service was high quality, although we had to wait a bit for the Pension Fund’s response. Overall satisfied, I recommend it.

Olena

14.08.2025

After losing my husband, it was emotionally difficult, but even harder to deal with the documents. The lawyer explained everything in simple terms, helped collect the necessary documents, and submitted the application. I received the pension without delays. Truly grateful for the support.

Liudmyla

08.08.2025

I didn’t know I was entitled to a pension after the death of my son, who supported me. The consultation opened my eyes to my rights. Everything was arranged very quickly. Thank you for the compassion and professionalism

Serhii

20.07.2025

Top-level service. The lawyer not only helped with the application but also appealed a previous denial. Professional support from day one until the pension was received. 5 stars without hesitation

Tetiana

23.05.2025

Professional approach and human attitude. The lawyer did everything on my behalf, I just signed the documents. Everything went smoothly, even during such a difficult time in life. Top score

Mykola

07.05.2025

The lawyer helped me understand whether I, as a student, had the right to a pension after my father's death. The consultation was thorough, and the assistance with the application was quick. There were a few delays, but overall everything went well