ZUS will increase the orphan’s supplement by 5.3% starting March 1, 2026, raising the monthly amount to nearly 690 PLN.
New Benefit Amount
As announced by Łukasz Kozłowski from the ZUS Supervisory Board, the waloryzacja (indexation) for March 2026 is set at 5.3%. This index determines the new amount for supplements linked to family pensions, including the orphan’s supplement.
The current orphan’s supplement stands at 654.48 PLN. After a 5.3% increase, the approximate monthly amount will be nearly 690 PLN. The final sum depends on rounding rules and will be confirmed closer to the March indexation date.
Eligibility Conditions
The orphan’s supplement is a benefit paid to individuals receiving a family pension following the death of a parent, provided both parents are deceased or the father is unknown. It is strictly tied to the family pension, not a separate universal benefit.
This monthly supplement is one of the lesser-known benefits within the ZUS system. Crucially, eligibility is directly linked to the right to a family pension; if the pension ceases, so does the right to the supplement.
Exclusions
The supplement is not available to individuals who do not meet the specific conditions for the family pension. Key exclusions stem from the strict linkage to the family pension entitlement.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the ERRD form to ZUS; the benefit is not awarded automatically. Supporting documents must be included. The application can be submitted in person, by mail, or via a representative. ZUS should issue a decision within 30 days of clarifying all relevant circumstances.
Annual Increase
The 5.3% increase means recipients will gain over 400 PLN annually. This represents steady support that grows in line with the family pension.
