Seniors who have raised at least four children can receive a monthly benefit of up to 1,978.49 zlotys gross from ZUS. The Mama 4+ program primarily covers women over 60, but in specific cases it also applies to men after turning 65.
The full amount equals the lowest pension effective from March 1, 2026. The benefit is indexed annually. Those already receiving a pension or disability benefit lower than the statutory minimum receive only a supplement. In April 2026 the average top-up amounted to 1,083.23 zlotys.
The key condition is having given birth to or raised at least four children. This includes biological children, adopted children, stepchildren, and children taken into foster care – except professional foster families.
Who is eligible for the benefit?
Women can apply after turning 60, provided they lack sufficient income to support themselves. Men may also qualify after reaching 65, but only in exceptional circumstances – for example, after the mother’s death or abandonment of the family. – The law allows fathers to receive the benefit if they were the primary caregiver for at least four children – explained a ZUS spokesperson.
Another condition is residence in Poland and having the center of vital interests in the country for at least 10 years after turning 16. Eligible persons include Polish citizens, citizens of certain EU and EFTA countries with the right of residence, and foreigners legally staying in Poland.
How to apply and how much you can receive?
The money is not granted automatically. An application must be submitted to ZUS together with the required documents. The full monthly benefit of 1,978.49 zlotys is paid only to those who have no other pension or disability benefit. For others, ZUS calculates the difference between the current pension and the lowest pension.
According to the latest data, the average supplement paid in April 2026 was 1,083.23 zlotys per person. The benefit is indexed annually along with pensions, meaning it will rise in March each year.
Important conditions for men
Although the program is called Mama 4+, fathers are not excluded. A man can receive the benefit if he meets the same conditions as a woman, but only after turning 65. Additionally, the legislation requires that the father actually raised the children – not just provided financial support.
The benefit is designed to support people who dedicated their lives to raising a large family and as a result have low or no retirement income. In 2026, the lowest pension is set at 1,978.49 zlotys gross, which translates to about 1,780.66 zlotys net.
Applicants must also prove they have no sufficient means of support. ZUS verifies income and family circumstances. The application can be filed in person at any ZUS branch or by mail.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. vivooo / Shutterstock
