Poland teacher compensatory benefits restrict additional school employment

Teachers in Poland receiving compensatory benefits face restrictions on additional employment. Under current regulations, those receiving these bridge-style payments are prohibited from working in schools, which has exacerbated teacher shortages. An interpellations sent to the Ministry of National Education has requested changes to allow recipients to perform short-term work, such as temporary substitutions, without risking their benefits.

To qualify for the compensatory benefit, educators must meet specific age and service requirements. As of the end of 2026, the required age is 56 for women and 61 for men. Additionally, recipients must have at least 30 years of total service, including 20 years of teaching at a minimum of half the mandatory teaching load.

Data from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) shows the benefit is being gradually phased out, with the number of beneficiaries decreasing annually. In May 2026, approximately 9,000 people received the benefit, with an average payment of 4,435.90 PLN. The eligibility group was expanded in early 2026 to include teachers from various vocational, artistic, and social service facilities.