Belarus Overhauls Social Welfare Payments: Key Changes and Deadlines

Belarus Implements New Social Welfare Payment System Starting July 1, 2025, the Belarusian government will implement a new system for distributing social welfare payments. All payments, including pensions, child benefits, unemployment benefits, and disability support, will be channeled exclusively through designated basic bank accounts. The deadline for citizens to open these accounts is June 20, 2025. According to Elena Gomorova, Deputy Head of the Pension Provision Department at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, this change aims to streamline the payment process and ensure efficient distribution of funds. "The basic account offers standard service conditions provided free of charge by banks," Gomorova stated. "This includes opening the account itself, issuing a plastic card, and paying utility bills." However, the new system does have exceptions. Pensioners receiving payments through Belpochta, the national postal service, and parents receiving child benefits from their employers or educational institutions are exempt from this requirement. The government's initiative is intended to modernize the social welfare system, ensuring transparency and accessibility for beneficiaries. While some may need to adapt to the new system, the free services offered by banks should ease the transition.