The head of the Ministry of Labor announced an increase in unemployment benefits to 16 thousand rubles.

Starting from February 1, 2026, the amount of unemployment benefits will be increased to 16 thousand rubles. This was announced on October 8 by the head of the Ministry of Labor Anton Kotyakov.

"According to the employment law, unemployment benefits will be increased according to the inflation rate. Starting from February 1, 2026, its amount will be about 16 thousand rubles. In a number of territories, it is higher, since northern coefficients are applied there," he said in an interview with TASS.

The payment will increase by 6.8% according to the inflation rate. In 2025, the allowance was indexed by 9.5%.

Pension indexation in 2026: when payments will be increased

The insurance pension will be indexed once next year.

On October 6, Kotyakov proposed a model for combating poverty based on the principle of "two keys": the state helps, but citizens should make efforts to improve their situation if there are no objective obstacles. According to him, in cases of objective necessity (child care, disability, illness, pregnancy, education), the state will continue to provide support.

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