Polish ZUS sick‑pay clarification

In early August 2026 the Polish Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) issued two related clarifications. On 5 August, ZUS explained that workers whose employment contracts have ended retain the right to receive sick‑pay if they become ill within 14 days of termination, provided the illness lasts at least 30 days. Benefits can be paid for up to 91 days after the social‑insurance period ends, but not beyond a total of 182 days of sick‑pay. The medical certificate must indicate the contract’s end so the notice is sent only to ZUS, protecting personal data.

Two days later, ZUS detailed the contribution system that funds these benefits. Health insurance contributions finance free medical care, while sickness‑insurance contributions (2.45 % of the contribution base) fund cash benefits for illness, caregiving, rehabilitation and maternity. Contributions are mandatory for employees on contracts and voluntary for contractors and the self‑employed. Paying the contribution entitles insured persons to paid sick leave, caregiving allowances, rehabilitation benefits and maternity benefits; non‑participation results in loss of these entitlements. Health‑insurance contributions are transferred to the National Health Fund.

Together, the announcements clarify eligibility after contract termination and the financing mechanism that underpins Poland’s paid sick‑leave and related benefits.