Poland rolls out new senior cash benefits and long‑term care program

The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) is paying an energy allowance of 336.16 zł per month to eligible seniors, such as former combatants, widows and other designated groups. The payment is not means‑tested, but seniors must file an application to receive it.

The Sejm has approved a senior voucher (bon senioralny) that will fund short‑term care services for people aged 65 and over whose monthly income does not exceed 3 410 zł. The programme, backed by a 1 billion zł budget for 2026‑28, will be administered by municipalities.

Separate from state benefits, the nationwide Senior Card gives people over 60 access to thousands of discounts on medical, cultural and retail services, with many municipalities offering the card free of charge.

ZUS also announced plans to launch a new app to help self‑employed individuals calculate and submit their social‑security contributions, aiming to simplify compliance from 2028 onward. Analysts note that Poland’s ageing population creates a large unmet demand for senior‑focused housing, presenting a significant investment opportunity.