Pensioners Risk Remaining Without Payments: Why Cards Will Be Blocked.

Blocking Accounts Due to Utility Bill Debt: What Should Pensioners Do?

Ukrainians, even in a state of war, may face the blocking of bank cards and accounts due to debts for utility services. This problem may also apply to the very accounts that receive pensions, subsidies, and other social payments.

A telling example is the story of a pensioner from Kharkiv whose pension account was blocked due to debts for heating with local heating networks. The man sought legal advice and learned that such actions comply with Ukrainian legislation.

Lawyer Vladyslav Deryi confirms the legality of such actions: 'The enforcement service has every right to seize the accounts of debtors, including those where pensions are received. Ukrainian legislation does not prohibit this even during wartime.'

Thus, orderly unblocking is possible through confirmation of the account's purpose. The pensioner must obtain the appropriate certificates from the bank and the Pension Fund confirming that the account is used solely for receiving pensions. With these documents, one should contact the enforcer with a statement for lifting the seizure.

Resolving the Debt Issue

Another way is to resolve the debt issue. 'The optimal option is a direct agreement with utility service providers. You can negotiate restructuring or repayment of the debt, and then contact the Pension Fund for a subsidy in case of financial difficulties,' experts explain.

It is essential to understand that blocking accounts does not mean automatic withdrawals of pensions - the money remains in the account, but access to it is restricted until the debts are resolved. Lawyers advise reacting promptly to notifications from enforcement authorities to avoid situations where a person is left without means of subsistence.

Also, do not forget what to do in case of refusal by the Pension Fund to transfer the pension.

Analysis:

The situation with the blocking of pensioners' accounts due to debts for utility services highlights the importance of timely resolution of financial issues and compliance with the terms of contracts with service providers. It also emphasizes the need for careful monitoring of account status and prompt responses to potential problems to avoid unpleasant situations.