A majority of Polish seniors rely on the annual “13th pension” payment as crucial financial support, primarily for healthcare, bills, and basic needs.
How Seniors Spend Their 13th Pension Payment
For most Polish seniors, the additional funds from the 13th pension represent key financial support. The payment is a significant supplement to household budgets, especially given rising living costs and healthcare expenses.
Research indicates that how seniors utilize the funds reflects their daily financial challenges.
13th Pension Amount in 2026
The 13th pension, paid annually in April alongside the standard pension, was permanently incorporated into Polish law in 2020. The amount is directly linked to the minimum pension, which will be 1978.49 złoty gross (approximately 1629 złoty net) in 2026.
The final payout amount is subject to tax deductions, including a 9% health contribution. If the combined total of the basic pension and the 13th pension exceeds 2500 złoty gross, a 12% PIT tax is also applied to the excess.
Spending Priorities of Polish Seniors
Studies show that the 13th pension is most often used for medications, medical treatment, and current bills. While many appreciate the financial boost and the increased sense of security it provides, some suggest the need for permanent benefit increases or tax exemptions.
Spending priorities vary based on location and individual financial circumstances, but the funds are typically quickly used for essential living expenses, making them a vital component of household budgets.
Regional Differences in Spending
Seniors in rural areas more frequently use the 13th pension for basic expenses like bills, medications, heating, and debt repayment. City dwellers are more likely to allocate the funds towards improving their quality of life, such as travel, leisure activities, or saving for the future.
Over 80% of respondents associate receiving the payment with a direct need to increase financial security, providing a respite and the ability to catch up on overdue expenses.
Senior Citizens’ Proposals for System Improvements
Despite positive evaluations of the 13th pension, seniors are calling for more systemic solutions. Key changes they propose include permanent increases to regular benefits and tax adjustments to provide greater financial security throughout the year.
Summary: The Role of the 13th Pension
The 13th pension primarily serves to secure basic living needs, with the largest portion of funds allocated to healthcare, bills, and daily expenses. This confirms its importance as a support mechanism for many households.
While some seniors use the payment to improve their quality of life, for most it remains a necessary financial injection. There is a growing expectation for more stable and systemic solutions, such as increased permanent benefits or tax changes, to ensure greater financial security for seniors year-round.
