Poland plans social security and pension system reforms

Poland is undergoing several shifts in its social security and pension landscape. The government is working on legislation to allow fathers to access the “Mama 4+” supplementary parental benefit if the mother is not eligible. Additionally, a proposal to unify the retirement age at 62 for both men and women has been discussed in the Sejm, though the Ministry of Family has not yet initiated legislative work on it.

Regarding existing benefits, the “800 plus” program is set to undergo a major change by 2027, introducing automatic renewal of rights to reduce administrative burdens. For seniors, the widow's pension system will see an increase in the second combined benefit from 15% to 25% starting January 1, 2027. Meanwhile, ZUS has announced new income limits for retirees earning additional income, which will change in September 2026, potentially affecting benefit levels or eligibility.

Other updates include reminders for students and pupils to submit certificates to ZUS to maintain family pensions, and the commencement of “14th pension” payments in September. Financial surveys also indicate that many Poles are experiencing stagnant or worsening financial situations, with a growing trend of seniors opting for bank transfers over cash deliveries for their benefits.