Legal advice for IDPs from Vuhledar: how to obtain IDP status

Legal advice for IDPs from Vuhledar: how to obtain IDP status

The IDPs from Vuhledar, like many other Ukrainians who were forced to leave their homes due to the hostilities, can obtain the status of an internally displaced person (IDP). This status not only entitles them to social support, but also provides access to certain benefits, including financial payments, medical care and legal assistance. In this article, you will find step-by-step instructions on how to apply for IDP status and a list of important recommendations for successfully obtaining this assistance.

Why is it important to obtain IDP status?

Obtaining the status of an internally displaced person allows displaced persons to enjoy many benefits and guarantees from the state. IDPs are entitled to:
– Financial support. Monthly payments to cover basic needs such as food, clothing and housing.
– Free medical care. IDPs can receive medical care in state institutions on preferential terms or free of charge.
– Legal assistance. Opportunity to receive free consultations with lawyers or attorneys to resolve various legal issues.
– Educational benefits. The state provides support for IDP children in the form of free education or participation in educational programmes.
– Housing programmes. IDPs can take advantage of temporary or permanent housing programmes, rented on favourable terms or provided by the state.
Step-by-step instructions for obtaining IDP status

Step 1. Preparation of documents

In order to apply for IDP status, you need to prepare the appropriate package of documents. The list of required documents includes:
1. A passport of a citizen of Ukraine or other identity document (international passport, ID card).
2. Identification code (RNOKPP) – registration number of the taxpayer’s account card.
3. A document confirming your residence in Vuhledar or another settlement from which you were forced to move. This can be a passport with a residence stamp or a certificate from a local authority.
4. A document confirming the circumstances of your displacement. For example, it can be a certificate of destruction or damage to housing, an official evacuation notice, etc.

Step 2. Submitting an application

Once the documents are collected, you need to apply for IDP status. There are several ways to do this:

– In person, contact the local department of social protection of the population (Department of Social Protection) at the place of your actual residence.
– Through the Diia application. You can apply online using the mobile application, which greatly simplifies the process. To do this, you must have a digital signature or ID card.
– Through the ASC (Centre for the Provision of Administrative Services). This is convenient if you live in a settlement where there are such centres.
In the application, you will need to indicate the reasons for moving and the address of your temporary residence.

Step 3. Waiting for a decision

After submitting the documents and application, the relevant authority will consider your application within a few working days. As a rule, the decision is made quickly, and if the result is positive, you will be issued an IDP certificate. This document confirms your status and entitles you to receive benefits.

Step 4. Receiving benefits and assistance

Once you have been granted IDP status, you can apply for financial support and other types of assistance. To do this, you need to submit an additional application for social assistance.

The main types of benefits available to IDPs include:
– Monthly cash payments for living expenses.
– Access to free medical services.
– Opportunity to receive humanitarian aid (clothing, food, etc.).
– State housing programmes to provide temporary or permanent accommodation.
Important tips for IDPs from Vuhledar
1. Do not delay in submitting documents. The sooner you receive IDP status, the sooner you will be able to enjoy social benefits and assistance.
2. Keep all your documents and certificates. It is important to confirm your status and receive assistance.
3. Update your place of residence on time. If you change your place of temporary residence, you must notify the social security authorities.
4. Consult with lawyers. If you have any difficulties with obtaining IDP status or receiving benefits, apply for free legal aid provided under state programmes for IDPs.
5. Beware of fraudsters. The growing number of IDPs often attracts fraudsters who offer ‘help’ for money. Official registration of IDP status does not require additional payments, so be vigilant.

How can I find out more?

If you have any questions or need help, please contact the Ministry of Social Policy’s Hotline or visit the nearest Administrative Service Centre. You can also use the Diia mobile application to get advice or submit an application online.

Obtaining the status of an internally displaced person is an important step for IDPs from Vuhledar, which opens up access to various types of assistance and support. By following the instructions below, you will be able to quickly and easily prepare the necessary documents and exercise the rights guaranteed by the state.