Poland’s Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) clarifies that in 2026, recipients entitled to multiple pensions or benefits will receive only one “13th pension” payment.
Double 13th Pension in 2026? ZUS Explains the Single Payment Rule
In 2026, the 13th pension will amount to 1978.49 złoty gross and will be paid to millions of seniors in April. Questions arise when individuals are entitled to more than one benefit, such as a pension and disability benefit, ZUS and KRUS benefits, or family and social pensions.
The Single Beneficiary Rule
The core principle determining eligibility is that the 13th pension is paid per person, not per benefit. Even if someone is formally entitled to multiple benefits, they will receive only one additional annual payment. This is a direct provision of the law, not an administrative interpretation.
Legal Basis: Article 3 of the Law
Article 3 of the law on the additional annual cash benefit clearly states that if an individual is entitled to more than one benefit, they are entitled to only one additional cash benefit.
ZUS and KRUS Benefits: One Payment
A common scenario involves individuals receiving a ZUS pension and a KRUS disability benefit. In such cases, one institution will assume responsibility for the 13th pension payment, making only a single disbursement.
Preventing Duplicate Payments
This system aims to prevent duplicate payments and simplify the process, but it eliminates the possibility of a “double bonus.”
13th Pension Amount in 2026
The amount of the 13th pension is equal to the minimum pension after revaluation. In 2026, this will be calculated based on the minimum pension amount, with potential deductions for income tax.
Payment Dates in April
ZUS will pay the benefit along with the basic pension or disability benefit, with standard payment dates potentially adjusted due to Easter holidays. Many seniors will receive the funds before Easter.
