Polish seniors may be eligible for several pension supplements beyond standard increases, with amounts changing in 2026; this article details those benefits.
2026 Pension and Allowance Valorization
The 2026 pension valorization rate is 5.3%. The minimum pension currently amounts to 1,978.49 zł gross (approximately 1800 zł net). This valorization also applies to all allowances and benefits associated with pensions and disability payments.
13th and 14th Pensions in 2026
The 13th pension, a yearly benefit paid to all pensioners in April, will be 1,978.49 zł gross in 2026. It is granted automatically, but subject to health insurance contributions and income tax deductions above a certain threshold.
Seniors with lower pensions will receive approximately 1,638 zł net from the 13th pension, while those with higher pensions may receive around 1,443 zł net with a pension of approximately 3,680 zł.
The 14th pension will also be 1,978.49 zł gross, intended to support those with lower incomes. It is fully paid to those whose pension, or total benefits, do not exceed 2,900 zł gross; above this amount, the benefit is reduced on a “złoty for złoty” basis. It is paid automatically in September.
Care Allowance 2026
This is a frequently granted additional benefit available to those entitled to their own retirement or disability pension who have been recognized as unable to work and live independently. The current amount is 366.67 zł.
To receive this benefit, an application must be submitted to ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) along with a medical certificate confirming inability to live independently.
Care Allowance After Age 75
Every pensioner who turns 75 receives this allowance automatically, without needing to submit an application. The current amount is 366.67 zł per month, paid with the pension by ZUS in the month the senior turns 75.
Veteran’s Allowance 2026
The veteran’s allowance, honoring those who fought for Poland’s independence, is currently 366.67 zł. It is available to pensioners and disability recipients who hold a veteran status certificate issued by the Office for Veterans and Repressed Persons. An application must be submitted to ZUS.
Compensatory Allowance 2026
This supplementary allowance complements the veteran’s allowance, providing a small adjustment. It currently amounts to 55.00 zł and is automatically granted to those receiving the veteran’s allowance.
Allowance for Former Soldiers 2026
This allowance is intended for former soldiers compulsorily employed before 1960, as well as miners and those deported for forced labor. It currently amounts to 366.67 zł per month.
An application must be submitted to ZUS with documents confirming the period of forced employment.
Allowance for Secret Teaching 2026
This is available to those who conducted secret teaching during the occupation. It currently amounts to 366.67 zł. An application must be submitted to ZUS with documentation confirming educational activity during the war.
Care Allowance for War Invalids
This is one of the highest additional benefits paid by ZUS, available to war invalids recognized as totally unable to work and live independently. The current amount is 550 zł per month, with a supplement to the invalid war pension of 1403.90 zł.
Allowance for Deported Persons 2026
This benefit is granted to those who were forcibly deported to work or camps during the war. Its current amount ranges from 18.38 zł to 348.40 zł per month.
To obtain the allowance, an application must be submitted to ZUS with documentation of the period of deportation or forced labor.
Energy Allowance 2026
The energy allowance is compensation for veterans and those entitled to the veteran’s allowance for increased energy consumption. It currently amounts to 336.16 zł and is granted and paid automatically with other allowances.
Honorary Benefit for Centenarians 2026
This unique benefit is for those who have reached 100 years of age. ZUS grants it automatically. In 2026, the honorary benefit will be 6938.92 zł gross per month, over 300 zł more than in 2025. This amount is fixed and does not change.
Senior Bonus 2026 – New Allowance for Seniors
In 2026, the government plans to introduce so-called senior bonuses, financial support for people over 65 who do not use care services funded by municipalities. The bonus can be used for home care, rehabilitation, or assistance with daily activities. The program will target seniors with low incomes and will be funded from the state budget, likely implemented in the second half of 2026.
