Hero of Ukraine posthumously: what payments and benefits are provided for the relatives of the deceased

Hero of Ukraine posthumously: what payments and benefits are provided for the relatives of the deceased

The title "Hero of Ukraine" can be awarded posthumously for an outstanding heroic act or labor achievement, and a monetary reward in the amount of 151,400 UAH is paid to family members of the deceased Hero. Heroes of Ukraine and their families are entitled to numerous benefits, including monthly payments and free medical services.

The title "Hero of Ukraine", one of the highest state awards, can be awarded both during life and posthumously.

Lawyer and representative of the public organization "Human Rights Platform" Yevhen Vorobyov explained in a media commentary that the award is carried out by decree of the President of Ukraine. The recipient is given a state award and a document certifying its award, and in the case of posthumous assignment, these attributes are received by members of the Hero’s family.

Article 6 of the Law “On State Awards” provides that the title “Hero of Ukraine” is awarded to citizens for committing an outstanding heroic deed or outstanding labor achievement. The recipient receives the Order of the Gold Star for heroic action or the Order of the State for labor achievements. Submissions for awarding the title of Hero of Ukraine to the President may be made by:

Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine;

Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine;

Constitutional Court of Ukraine;

Supreme Tribunal;

Office of the Attorney General;

ministries and other central executive authorities;

Council of Ministers of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea;

Regional, Kyiv and Sevastopol city state administrations;

Commission of Awards and Heraldry under the President of Ukraine.

Hero of Ukraine posthumously: payments

According to the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 144 dated February 26, 2020, a monetary reward in the amount of 50 times the subsistence minimum for able-bodied persons (UAH 151,400 as of 2024) is paid to family members of the deceased hero. Family members include spouse, children and parents.

A family member submits an application to the social protection authority at the place of residence. Copies are attached to the application:

• passports of a citizen of Ukraine;
• certificate of assignment of the registration number of the taxpayer’s registration card;
• death certificate of the Hero of Ukraine;
• document conferring the title "Hero of Ukraine";
• marriage or child birth certificates;
• decision to establish guardianship or trusteeship (if necessary).

Benefits for Heroes of Ukraine

Heroes of Ukraine and members of their families are entitled to a number of benefits. In particular:

• monthly payments in the amount of three minimum wages;
• pension supplements in the amount of 200% of the minimum age pension;
• benefits for taxes, customs duties and other payments;
• free medical care and medicines;
• free prosthetics and spa treatment;
• exemption from paying utility bills and rent;
• priority right to improve housing conditions;
• free major home repairs;
• priority use of all types of transport;
• monthly compensation for the purchase of automobile fuel;
• preferential right to remain at work if laid off;
• free training and retraining;
• free burial and one-time assistance in case of death.

The President of Ukraine may revoke the title of Hero of Ukraine. This happens if the recipient commits a serious crime.