Applications for a heating allowance of up to 3,500 zł for 2026 open July 1st in Poland, targeting households connected to district heating networks.
What is the 2026 Heating Allowance?
The heating allowance is a new program of subsidies for heating costs, introduced by an act of 2025. It provides a one-time cash benefit to households using system heating, supplied by municipal or housing estate heating networks.
The allowance aims to compensate for increased heating costs following the end of government energy price freezes.
Eligibility for the Heating Allowance
The allowance is granted based on income criteria. If income exceeds the threshold, the support amount is reduced by the excess income—a “złoty for złoty” principle.
Even if the income threshold is exceeded, applicants can still apply, with a minimum allowance of 20 zł.
Allowance Amounts for 2026
In 2026, the allowance ranges from 1,000 zł to a maximum of 3,500 zł for the period from January 1st to December 31st, 2026.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must provide a current certificate of heating costs issued by their housing cooperative, community association, or heating provider. This determines the support amount and eligibility.
Household data, income information, and a bank account number are also required. Missing information may delay processing.
Where and When to Apply
Applications can be submitted at the municipal or city offices responsible for the applicant’s place of residence. The application period for 2026 begins on July 1st and ends on August 31st, 2026.
The application form is available in paper and online formats, with funds disbursed after verification by local authorities.
Heating Allowance and Single-Family Homes
The allowance is not intended for owners of single-family homes who heat independently with gas, pellets, coal, or heat pumps. It applies only to recipients connected to municipal or housing estate district heating networks (apartment buildings, communities).