Good news for Polish seniors: this year’s 14th pension will be higher than in 2025. The government’s draft regulation sets the benefit at 1,978.49 PLN gross, up from 1,878.91 PLN last year. The additional payment will be made in September alongside regular pensions, with no need to submit any applications.
The draft regulation is currently under review, but it maintains the same mechanism as the previous year. The 14th pension corresponds to the minimum pension amount, which in 2026 is 1,978.49 PLN gross. However, not all retirees will receive the full amount. The full benefit is reserved for those whose total monthly pension does not exceed 2,900 PLN gross. Above this threshold, the 'zloty for zloty’ rule applies: for every zloty above 2,900 PLN, the additional payment is reduced by one zloty. For example, a retiree with a monthly pension of 3,500 PLN will receive only 1,378.49 PLN from the 14th pension (1,978.49 – (3,500 – 2,900) = 1,378.49). If the pension exceeds 4,878.49 PLN, the benefit drops to zero.
Higher amount with income threshold
The increase of nearly 100 PLN gross reflects the annual indexation of the minimum pension. While the full amount is available to seniors with lower pensions, many will receive a reduced or no additional payment. The eligibility is determined as of August 31, 2026 – anyone who qualifies for a long-term pension or annuity by that date will be entitled to the 14th payment, even if the formal decision is issued later. The payment date remains September, identical to the previous year.
The 14th pension has become a regular element of Poland’s social policy since its introduction. In 2026, the government decided to maintain the same distribution model, ensuring predictability for seniors. The total cost of the benefit is covered by the state budget, and no additional contributions are required from retirees. The automatic disbursement means beneficiaries do not have to take any action.
Who qualifies and who is excluded
The 14th pension is available to recipients of old-age pensions, disability pensions, survivor’s pensions, social pensions, pre-retirement benefits, and teacher’s compensatory benefits. It is designed as a one-time additional support for the most vulnerable groups among retirees. However, the benefit does not cover everyone. Judges and prosecutors in retirement, as well as individuals receiving an Olympic pension, are excluded from the additional payment. The government argues that these groups already receive more favorable pension arrangements.
The regulation does not require any action from beneficiaries – the payment will be made automatically based on ZUS data. The draft is still under consultation, but no major changes are expected before the final approval. Seniors will receive their higher 14th pension along with their regular September payment.
Źródło: WNP, Fot. Shutterstock/Longfin Media
