Poland’s ZUS will raise disability support for severe depression to 4,353 zł monthly from March 2026, based on functional impairment assessment.
Depression as a Condition
Depression is a classified mental disorder, not merely a bad day, with mild, moderate, or severe courses. Severe cases can significantly impair daily function, especially post-pandemic and during economic crises. Not all sufferers need daily support, which is key for benefit eligibility.
Benefit Eligibility Criteria
Support requires a 70-100 point assessment by the Provincial Team for Disability Certification (WZON). Points depend on depression’s impact on functioning, not just the diagnosis. Ambulatory treatment with independent living usually scores low; severe, recurrent depression with hospitalization and high care needs scores highest.
Application Procedure
Obtaining benefits is a two-step process: first securing a disability ruling via WZON, then applying to ZUS with medical documentation. A disability ruling alone does not guarantee financial support; applicants must demonstrate substantial need through medical records and commission evaluation.
Benefit Amounts
Effective March 1, 2026, the highest benefit is 4,353 zł for those with the highest dependency (e.g., severe depression requiring constant care). Amounts are calculated from the social pension base, which rises to 1,978.49 zł after indexation. Support targets cases where depression truly prevents independent living.
