Poland’s Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) will provide an additional 336.16 złoty (€83.04/year) monthly to eligible pensioners starting March 2026 to help cover energy costs.
Additional Funds from ZUS for Pensioners’ Bills
Pensioners may receive an additional 336 złoty per month towards utility bills. Check the rules for receiving the fixed-rate energy allowance.
Over 4,000 złoty annually – that’s how much seniors could gain by submitting a single application to ZUS. The new benefit rate came into effect in March 2026 and is paid regardless of household income. Check if you belong to the group eligible for the energy allowance.
ZUS Increases Allowance for Electricity and Gas
From March 2026, the energy allowance will be exactly 336.16 złoty per month, over 23 złoty more than last year. The benefit is indexed annually, meaning the allowance will increase with inflation and the cost of living. These funds are intended to help pay for electricity, gas, and heating. Importantly, ZUS does not check your income. Support is available regardless of your pension amount.
Who Can Receive the 336 złoty Supplement?
Although the money goes to pensioners, not every senior is on the list of eligible recipients. According to current regulations, the energy allowance is available to:
Allowance Can Be Inherited
If your deceased spouse was entitled to the allowance, you may apply to continue payments into your account as a widow or widower.
How to Obtain the Energy Allowance? (Step-by-Step)
The money will not be automatically credited to your account – it is necessary to complete the formalities.
Is It Worth It? The Calculation is Simple
The monthly amount of 336.16 złoty may seem modest, but seniors receive up to 4033.92 złoty annually. The supplement is completely tax-free. The amount you see on the ZUS decision is exactly what will be credited to your account or delivered by the postman with your basic pension.
Eligibility Criteria for the 336.16 złoty Allowance
The energy allowance is available to veterans, persons subjected to repression, substitute military service soldiers compulsorily employed, widows and widowers of veterans and eligible persons, and widows of compulsorily employed soldiers.
Does the ZUS Energy Allowance Depend on Income or Pension Amount?
The energy allowance is provided without an income criterion. ZUS does not check earnings, and the full amount of 336.16 złoty is available regardless of pension amount, if the person belongs to the eligible group.
How to Apply for the ZUS Energy Allowance?
To receive the energy allowance, you must complete form ZUS-ERK and attach documents confirming eligibility, such as a decision from the Office for Veterans Affairs, a certificate from the Military Registration Office, or a certificate from a military authority.
A widow or widower may apply to continue payments if the deceased spouse was entitled to the allowance. The allowance is not available to all widows, only to those of spouses with specific veteran or military entitlements.
