Widow’s Pension to Rise to 50 Percent by 2028

Sejm Speaker Włodzimierz Czarzasty has announced plans to double the widow’s pension from 25 to 50 percent of the secondary benefit by 2028 and expand eligibility to all widows and widowers.

Proposed Changes to Widow’s Pension

Sejm Speaker Włodzimierz Czarzasty announced that the widow’s pension is set to increase from the currently planned 25 percent to 50 percent of the second benefit. The government intends for these changes to take effect in 2028, aiming to extend eligibility to all widowers and widows, regardless of current restrictions.

Current Pension Regulations

As of July 2025, the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) pays a widow’s pension amounting to 15 percent of the second benefit, combined with 100 percent of the individual’s own pension. This is scheduled to increase to 25 percent in January 2027. Recipients must meet specific age requirements—60 for women and 65 for men—and must have been in a marital union until the spouse’s death.

Application and Formalities

To apply, individuals must submit the ERWD form to the relevant pension authority. If an applicant already holds rights to both a family pension and their own benefit, the procedure is simplified with no additional documents required. Applications may be filed 30 days before meeting all eligibility criteria.

Payment Limits and Appeals

The total sum of combined benefits cannot exceed three times the lowest pension amount. If the limit is exceeded, benefits are reduced, starting with those funded by the state budget. Applicants have the right to appeal ZUS decisions to the labor and social insurance court within one month of receiving a decision, with no fees attached to the appeal process.