Poland widens eligibility for care allowance and senior benefits

Polish authorities are clarifying and extending the municipal care allowance (zasiłek pielęgnacyjny). The benefit is not tied to a specific disease such as hypertension; eligibility depends on disability degree, age and lack of daily self‑care, with no income test. It can be granted to children with disabilities, persons over 16 with a severe disability certificate, and individuals over 75.

Local social welfare offices also provide a range of senior benefits. A permanent allowance supports seniors who are completely unable to work because of age or disability, while a periodic allowance helps those facing temporary hardship due to illness, loss of other benefits, or similar challenges. A targeted allowance can cover specific expenses such as medication, heating, clothing, minor home repairs or funeral costs, and a special targeted allowance may be granted without regard to income in exceptional cases. The municipal care allowance is distinct from the ZUS care supplement and cannot be received simultaneously.