The Verkhovna Rada approved the 2026 budget: teachers’ salaries will significantly increase
On December 3, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the state budget for 2026, which includes significant investments in defense, education, and social protection. The document was supported by 257 deputies.
The 2026 budget provides for an increase in spending on the security and defense sector to UAH 2.806 trillion, which amounts to 27.2% of the country’s GDP. Significant changes will also affect the education sector – teachers’ salaries will increase by 30% from January 1 and by an additional 20% from September 1. The minimum salary will be raised from UAH 8,000 to UAH 8,647, and the general living minimum will increase from UAH 2,920 to UAH 3,209.
State budget revenues are forecasted at UAH 2.918 trillion, particularly due to the increase of the corporate profit tax from 25% to 50%. Budget expenditures will amount to UAH 4.781 trillion, with increased spending on the reserve fund and the staged increase in teachers’ salaries.
There is also a planned increase in the share of personal income tax (PIT) that remains in local budgets to 64%. Additional funds are allocated for energy carrier payments, which will help avoid increases in utility tariffs.
The adoption of the 2026 budget had been expected since October, but due to differing positions among parliamentarians, this issue remained unresolved. However, the new financial plan retains its main priorities, particularly strengthening defense capabilities, supporting educational reform, and ensuring social protection for citizens.
| Indicator | According to the 2026 budget |
|---|---|
| Teachers’ salaries | +30% (from January 1), +20% (from September 1) |
| Minimum salary | UAH 8,647 |
| Living minimum | UAH 3,209 |
| State budget revenues | UAH 2.918 trillion |
| Budget expenditures | UAH 4.781 trillion |
| State budget deficit | UAH 1.9 trillion (18.5% of GDP) |
