Almost PLN 6,600 gross per month after indexation. Age is the deciding factor in granting the honorary benefit

According to data from the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy, there are currently over 6,000 people over the age of 100 living in Poland, and this number will systematically grow. Each of these seniors is entitled to an honorary benefit. After indexation, it will be higher by 5.5 percent, or almost PLN 350.

Who is entitled to the benefit? honorary?

The honorary benefit is available to people who have reached the age of 100. The benefit is a monthly supplement to the pension and disability benefits received and is awarded for life.

On 1 January 2025, the Act of 18 October 2024 on the honorary benefit for reaching the age of 100 entered into force. It replaced the previously applicable non-statutory mechanism, which had been in operation for over 50 years. According to it, the amount of the benefit corresponded to the base amount applicable on the day of reaching the age of 100. The amount of benefits for individual seniors therefore varied depending on when they were granted. This supplement was not subject to indexation.

According to the new regulations, from the beginning of 2025, the honorary benefit for all centenarians is the same, regardless of the age group. The benefit for reaching 100 years of age awarded before January 1, 2025, has been increased from the new year, and will be indexed from March .

How much is the honorary benefit?

The honorary benefit for centenarians is significantly higher than the average pension in Poland, and after indexation it will increase even more. From January 2025 it amounts to PLN 6,246.13 gross per month . Benefits previously paid at a lower amount have been increased to this amount.

From March, centenarians can count on a 5.5 percent increase. According to ZUS , after indexation, the honorary benefit for people who have turned 100 will amount to PLN 6,589.67 gross per month, which is PLN 343.54 more than currently. An advance payment for income tax is collected from the benefit from individuals and health insurance contributions .

How to apply for an honorary benefit?

In most cases, the honorary benefit is granted ex officio after the beneficiary reaches the required age. The senior citizen will receive a decision in this matter from the relevant pension or disability pension authority (ZUS, KRUS, military pension authority, Pension and Disability Pension Office of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Prison Service Pension Office). The application does not have to be submitted by people who:

In some cases, the right to an honorary benefit is granted upon application. According to ZUS, it should be submitted by people who:

If a senior citizen receives more than one retirement and disability benefit upon reaching the age of 100, they will receive one honorary benefit. If the retirement and disability benefit is paid by two different bodies, the honorary benefit will be awarded and paid by ZUS.