Raising a child in Russia can cost between 390,000 to 630,000 rubles in the first year alone, according to estimates, but various government benefits are available to help offset these expenses. The final cost depends on factors like the region, family income, and individual needs.

Several state support programs are designed to ease the financial burden on families.

Maternity benefits provide 100% of the average earnings of an insured woman for the duration of her maternity leave, which is typically 140 days (70 days before and after birth). This can be extended to 156 days in cases of complicated childbirth or 194 days when multiple children are born. The minimum benefit is 103,285 rubles, while the maximum is 794,355 rubles.

A one-time payment of 26,941.71 rubles is provided upon the birth of each child. In the case of twins or higher-order multiples, this payment is allocated for each child.

Monthly childcare allowance is paid until the child reaches 1.5 years of age. This allowance amounts to 40% of the average earnings of the caregiver (parent or guardian) for the two years preceding the leave, but not less than 10,103.83 rubles per month and not more than 68,995.48 rubles.

Maternity capital is a significant form of support. For the first child, families are entitled to 690,266.95 rubles. Upon the birth of a second child, an additional 221,895.1 rubles are provided. If the family did not receive maternity capital for the first child, they will receive 912,162.09 rubles for the second child. This capital can be used for housing, education, or, under certain conditions, as a monthly payment if the family’s per capita income is below two regional subsistence minimums.

A unified monthly allowance is available for children under 17 years of age. The amount varies from 50 to 100% of the regional subsistence minimum for children, depending on the family’s level of need.

In addition to federal programs, regional governments offer their own benefits, payments, and gifts to new parents, including essential items for the baby’s first year.