Polish ZUS clarifies contributions for paid sick leave and benefits

The Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) explained that health insurance provides free medical care, while sickness insurance funds cash benefits during illness, caregiving, rehabilitation and maternity. Regional spokesperson Iwona Kowalska‑Matis said contributions to sickness insurance are paid to ZUS, recorded on each insured person's account, and the rate is 2.45 % of the contribution base.

For employees on an employment contract, sickness insurance is mandatory; for contractors and self‑employed persons it is voluntary. Paying the contribution entitles the insured to a paid sick leave allowance, a caregiving allowance for sick family members, possible rehabilitation benefits, and maternity benefits after the birth or adoption of a child. Failure to join the scheme means loss of these benefits.

The health insurance contribution, also collected by ZUS, is transferred to the National Health Fund (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia) and guarantees free medical treatment for all insured persons and their families.