Almost 4,500 PLN Annually for Former Village Heads: How to Claim KRUS Benefits

Starting March 1, 2026, former village heads are eligible for a monthly gross benefit of 373.67 PLN, provided they submit the necessary documentation to KRUS to initiate the payout process.

Increased Payouts for Former Officials

The benefit for former village heads has risen to 373.67 PLN gross per month as of March 1, 2026. This lifelong payment, which is subject to annual indexation, results in an annual total of 4,484.04 PLN added to the household budget.

The recent increase adds 18.81 PLN to the monthly payment. These funds are not granted automatically; eligible retirees must complete the formal application process through KRUS to receive them.

Eligibility Criteria for the Benefit

Eligibility for this official benefit for village heads depends on several strict requirements. The payment is available regardless of the size of your primary pension from ZUS or KRUS.

To qualify, you must be at least 60 years old for women or 65 for men, have served as a village head for at least seven years, hold an active right to a retirement or disability pension, and possess no criminal record for specific offenses.

Application Procedure

You must initiate the administrative process to receive payments. Applications must be submitted in person or by mail to the KRUS local office corresponding to your place of residence.

Required documentation includes a completed application form, a certificate from the municipal office (urząd gminy), and a statement of non-conviction.

Handling Missing Records

If a municipality lacks records confirming your service from the 1980s or 1990s, you may submit your own sworn statement regarding your tenure. This must be supported by written testimony from at least three witnesses who lived in the village during your term.

The authorities will verify the identity of these witnesses and confirm their residence in the area during the specified period.

Tax Implications and Deadlines

KRUS issues payments from the month the application is received. Officials have up to 60 days to reach a decision and issue the first payment, so prompt submission is advised.

While KRUS does not withhold advance income tax payments, this benefit is considered taxable income. Recipients must declare this amount as income from other sources in their annual tax return (PIT).

Frequently Asked Questions

The benefit is a lifelong, indexable payment for those meeting the age, service, and character requirements. Failure to provide supporting witness statements in the absence of official records will delay or disqualify an application.