ZUS can pay two allowances at once — up to PLN 866.68/month

22 August 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Learn how two ZUS allowances can add up to PLN 866.68 monthly for eligible retirees. Check eligibility and apply for the supplement.

The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) can pay two separate monthly allowances at the same time. Consequently, eligible retirees may receive up to PLN 866.68 more per month if they meet the rules for both payments and apply where required. The phrase two ZUS allowances refers to the 500 PLN supplementary payment and the 366.68 PLN care allowance.

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How the math works and who pays

The first payment is the so-called 500 PLN for those unable to live independently. Moreover, ZUS (Zaklad Ubezpieczen Spolecznych, the Polish social security office) funds that supplement. The second is the care allowance of 366.68 PLN. In addition, the care allowance is administered through ZUS for pensioners and disability pensioners. Therefore, 500 PLN plus 366.68 PLN equals 866.68 PLN per month. That totals PLN 10,400.16 over 12 months.

Eligibility rules for the 500 PLN supplement

The 500 PLN supplement targets adults who cannot live independently. However, the actual payment may fall below 500 PLN. Indeed, ZUS reduces the supplement if other public benefits exceed a limit. Currently, that limit stands at PLN 2,687.67 gross until February 2027. Consequently, a person with higher pensions or benefits may receive only part of the 500 PLN top-up. Applicants must file form ESUN to claim the supplement. In addition, they must document their inability to live independently. Thus, medical records, health certificates, or administrative rulings may prove necessary. Also note that a disability card alone may not suffice to show inability to live independently for this benefit.

two ZUS allowances: the care allowance and 75+ rule

The care allowance has different rules. From March 1, 2026, its value increased to PLN 366.68. Moreover, ZUS usually grants it automatically to pensioners aged 75 and over. However, age alone does not grant the 500 PLN supplement. Therefore, a 75-year-old who receives the care allowance will not automatically get the supplementary 500 PLN. Instead, they must still meet the separate disability and income criteria.

Can both payments be combined?

Yes. Receiving the care allowance does not disqualify someone from the 500 PLN supplement. In fact, ZUS excludes the care allowance from the income calculation for the supplement. Consequently, a qualifying person may collect both payments simultaneously. However, they must request the supplement via form ESUN. Also, they must provide evidence of their condition when requested.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland as an expat and receive a pension or disability pension, check your ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) records. Also, learn basic Polish administrative terms like PESEL (national ID number) and NFZ (National Health Fund) to complete forms. Therefore, contact ZUS early, and bring medical documentation or translated records. Moreover, NGOs and social workers in Warsaw and other cities often help with applications.

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