State Duma Deputy Chairman Anna Kuznetsova stated that the plan to merge the Russian Pension Fund (PFR) with the Social Insurance Fund (FSS) has been discussed for a long time as part of a broader effort to streamline social protection. The goal is clear: ensure that citizens do not face disruptions during the transfer, and that procedures become simpler and faster. The anticipated outcome is a single point of service where people can access consultations and receive payments under pension and insurance rules in one place.
Kuznetsova noted that the range of issues solvable at a single location will grow substantially. For instance, expectant mothers have historically had to visit multiple institutions, sometimes in different cities, to obtain maternity capital and birth certificates. Similar fragmentation affects families with children, pensioners, and people with disabilities. The consolidation is expected to reduce these trips and delays by centralizing services under one roof.
He also highlighted that the fund unification will underpin the introduction of a unified insurance rate. This change could raise the maximum monthly payment levels for sick leave, maternity leave, and child care by up to 1.5 times, reflecting a modernization of the social benefit framework.
In parallel, Inna Svyatenko, head of the Federation Council Committee on Social Policy, argued that merging the funds and establishing a single tariff approach goes beyond administrative efficiency. It is about elevating the quality of social support and simplifying interactions with government for businesses, citizens, and institutions alike.
The discussion emphasizes that Russia is advancing its system for delivering social services with a focus on personalization and digital platforms. Once the funds are combined, the public can expect timely payments and consistent access to a shared customer service hub located at the same addresses previously used by the PFR and FSS for guidance and assistance.
Earlier, the State Duma approved a draft law on the unification of the PFR and FSS at the first reading. By January 1, 2023, a unified Pension and Social Insurance Fund—referred to as the Russian Social Fund—was slated to come into effect, with some foundational functions already rolled out as of June 1 of the previous year. The trajectory of these changes signals a broader shift toward a more integrated and user-friendly social protection system.