Starting March 1, 2026, eligible seniors and pensioners can receive a tax-free energy allowance of 336.16 PLN per month from ZUS, regardless of personal income levels, provided specific legal requirements are met.
Energy Allowance Eligibility
The energy allowance is a financial benefit paid by the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) to specific social groups. It is designed to offset household expenses related to electricity, gas, and heating, governed by the Law on Combatants dated January 24, 1991.
Benefit Amount and Indexation
As of March 1, 2026, the energy allowance is set at 336.16 PLN per month. This amount is indexed annually, with this year’s increase at 5.3 percent. The payment is tax-exempt and not income-dependent.
The updated allowance amount is officially announced annually by the Head of the Office for Veterans and Victims of Oppression by February 7 in the Monitor Polski official gazette.
Application Process and Deadlines
To receive the benefit, applicants must submit the ZUS-ERK form to any ZUS branch in person or by mail, including necessary documents verifying eligibility. There is no deadline for filing; applications can be submitted at any time.
Payment Logistics
ZUS processes applications within 30 days, with payments issued in the month following approval. The benefit is paid alongside the monthly pension, either via bank transfer or cash. If eligibility existed earlier, retroactive payments may be issued.