Poland expands disability support payments while accident pension numbers fall

Polish provincial disability boards (WZON) can now grant a supplemental benefit to people with severe spinal conditions, ranging from about 792 zł to 4 353 zł per month. The aid is paid regardless of ZUS pensions and does not depend on income. Eligibility is based on functional limitations rather than diagnosis, with scores from 70 to 100 points determining the amount (up to 220 % of the social pension). Recipients can use the tax‑free money for private rehabilitation, medication, or equipment such as wheelchairs and orthopedic beds.

Separately, ZUS reports a sharp decline in the number of accident‑related pensions over the past decade. In 2025, 123.3 thousand people received such pensions, down from 180.5 thousand in 2016 – a drop of about 57 thousand (roughly one‑third). The majority of recipients are elderly (over 70 years), with an average age of 73.9 years, and men make up 64 % of this group. The reduction is linked to fewer workplace accidents and stronger safety cultures in firms.