Russian policymakers are considering indexing routine cash payments to retirees beginning on January 1, 2025. Svetlana Bessarab, a deputy on the State Duma Committee for Social Policy, outlined the plan in discussions reported by RIA Novosti. The move targets pension adequacy by aligning payments with rising living costs and ensuring predictable incomes for retirees while sustaining fiscal discipline. The core measure centers on the draft law tied to the budget of pensions and social funds, which proposes a 7.3 percent increase for insurance pensions in 2025.
According to the draft budget law for pensions and social funds, the plan would index insurance pensioners in 2025 by 7.3 percent. The parliamentarian described this adjustment as part of a broader effort to improve pension adequacy and strengthen social support for seniors. The proposal would require parliamentary approval and alignment with the government’s budget framework, with funding arranged to preserve the state’s fiscal balance.
The same source notes that authorities intend to extend indexing to social benefits for both non-working retirees and those who remain employed. This broader approach aims to bridge gaps in protection for seniors who do not receive wages-based pensions and for those whose earnings provide some retirement income. The policy would cover multiple beneficiary groups and reflect an integrated strategy for retirement security and social protection.
As noted by the MP, some retirees could see higher payments as early as December this year, with the January 2025 adjustments acting as the first step. The early uplift is intended to ease the transition into the new year and provide immediate relief to households living on fixed budgets. The specific qualifications and calculation methods will be detailed in the accompanying legislation and regulatory guidance that follows.
Looking ahead, Bessarab said that starting in 2026 Russia may begin indexing pensions twice a year, on February 1 and April 1. This biannual rhythm would move beyond the traditional annual adjustment and aim to keep pension receipts aligned with cost of living more closely. For retirees, the change could offer more predictable income, while the government would need careful budget planning to fund the increased frequency.
On October 1, Russia already indexed pensions for former military personnel and the salaries of budget institution workers by 5.1 percent. In addition, the authorities ordered higher payments to citizens celebrating their 80th birthday in September. These steps illustrate ongoing efforts to bolster retirement income and reward long service, all within the annual budgeting cycle and in line with social policy objectives.
Within the broader retirement framework, the government continues to recognize those who have the right to early retirement under Russian law. These provisions allow eligible workers to exit active employment earlier under certain conditions. The indexing proposals are designed to complement these early retirement options, helping maintain adequate retirement income for people who may leave the workforce before the typical retirement age.