Polish municipalities are dismantling their Municipal Social Assistance Centers (MOPS), replacing them with more versatile Social Service Centers (CUS) offering expanded non-cash benefits.
MOPS Liquidation and Benefit Levels
Municipalities are eliminating MOPS, with care allowances remaining at 3386 zł and care supplements at 215.84 zł from the new units, while discretionary benefits remain unchanged.
MOPS to CUS Transition
MOPS, once a symbol of social assistance, are being replaced by CUS, which have broader competencies for managing local programs. The state and EU are prioritizing non-cash benefits like senior care, though cash payments continue.
Over the past few years, EU funding incentivized the transformation of MOPS into CUS. Approximately 130 MOPS have already been liquidated, with projections indicating up to 600 closures by 2030, compared to the current 2500 MOPS and GOPS centers.
CUS Service Provision
CUS provide social services without transferring funding. All benefits remain cash-based, while social services are provided in-kind, shifting the focus of social assistance away from direct financial aid.
CUS Integration and Coordination
CUS integrate and coordinate local support tailored to residents’ needs, encompassing a wide range of services.
Benefit Continuity
The liquidation of MOPS will not affect benefit payments; care allowances (3386 zł) and care supplements (215.84 zł) will continue to be distributed by the new units.
Basic cash benefits, including care supplements, fixed-amount benefits, periodic benefits, targeted benefits, and special targeted benefits, will remain secure and unchanged. Both MOPS and CUS will handle these payments.
Parallel Operation and Future Outlook
Both MOPS and CUS will operate in parallel for approximately the next 10 years, with a long-term goal of significantly reducing the number of MOPS in favor of CUS, supported by upcoming legislative changes.
Limitations of MOPS and the Role of CUS
MOPS lacked the legal framework to efficiently offer non-cash benefits, such as senior care and assistant support. CUS are designed to expand non-cash services, including neighborly assistance, minor home repairs, cleaning services, and specialized counseling (psychological, legal, pedagogical, speech therapy, and dietary).
Szczecin’s Service Model
The city of Szczecin provides an example of these services, as outlined in its 2025-2029 Social Services Program, which aims to establish a CUS to improve access to support for seniors, people with disabilities, and families facing difficulties.
Szczecin’s 2025-2029 Social Services Catalog
The catalog includes services for individuals needing daily support and caregivers, families with children, and seniors. These range from specialized counseling and therapy to practical assistance with household chores.
Specific examples include psychological workshops, parent-child activities, and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Comparing Cash and Non-Cash Benefits
The care supplement is currently 215.84 zł per month, intended to partially cover expenses related to providing care for individuals unable to live independently. Eligibility criteria apply.
The new care allowance, at 3386 zł per month in 2026, is available to those caring for individuals with disabilities under the age of 18, with existing disability assessment requirements remaining in place.
Legal Framework and Incentives for CUS Development
Amendments to the Act on Implementing Social Services through Social Service Centers remove legal obstacles to transforming MOPS into CUS, incentivizing municipalities to prioritize CUS development.
