New Rates and Rules in Russia Starting October 1

Starting October 1, new tariffs for utility services came into force in Russia. Conditions for family mortgages have changed and restrictions on freelancers have been introduced. These measures will affect a wide range of citizens, from homeowners to those looking for additional income.

Increase in Utility Tariffs

Average indices of housing and utility service cost increases by region ranged from 8% to 22%. In Moscow, the increase was 15%, in St. Petersburg it was 14.6%, and in Dagestan it was 19.7%. The specific amount of additional payment depends on local tariff rates.

Changes in Family Mortgage

Under new agreements, the interest rate for family mortgages now depends on the region of residence and the number of children. With one child, the rate is 10–12%, and with five or more children, it is only 2–4%. A mandatory condition is that at least one child must be under seven years old. The subsidy period is limited to fifteen years.

Restrictions on Side Jobs

New rules have been introduced for individual performers working through platforms. It is now forbidden to perform work for one client for more than 60 hours per month over six consecutive months. This restriction aims to regulate long-term cooperation with regular clients.

Additional Changes

• A duty of 35% has been imposed on biologically active additives (BAA) from "unfriendly" countries. Exceptions include Hungary and Slovakia.
• Tariffs for sleeping cars and general carriages on trains have increased by 9.2%.
• Microfinance organizations (MFOs) will no longer issue a third microloan if the borrower already has two unpaid loans or credits with a total cost exceeding 200% per annum.