PLN 500 for the most needy. The income threshold is increasing

The additional PLN 500 for seniors is financial support for people who are unable to live independently. The purpose of this benefit is to improve the financial situation of the oldest and most needy citizens. In 2024, the scope of people entitled to receive this supplement changed. What requirements must be met to receive the money?

The supplementary benefit, known as "500+ for seniors" , is financial assistance for people who, due to their health condition, require constant care and assistance in everyday life. In 2024, the criteria for granting it were changed, thanks to which more people in need - including seniors - can apply for additional funds to cover the costs of care and basic needs.

According to the official government website gov.pl, in order to receive the supplementary benefit, several key conditions must be met regarding age, health, financial situation and place of residence.

The basic condition is to have a certificate of inability to live independently, which means that the applicant requires constant assistance in everyday functioning.

It is also important to remember that the benefit is available to people aged 18 and over - this means that both seniors and younger adults can apply for it, provided they meet the other criteria.

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Moreover, the money will be paid if the applicant is not entitled to a pension or an annuity or receives benefits but their amount does not exceed a certain income threshold.

Permanent residence in Poland , Polish citizenship or residence status entitling you to receive the benefit are also important; this also applies to foreigners who legally reside in Poland.

From 1 March 2024, this threshold is PLN 2,419.33 gross, although as part of the annual indexation in 2025, it is to increase to approximately PLN 2,583.36. If the sum of benefits received exceeds this amount, the benefit may still be granted, but in a smaller amount, so that the total sum does not exceed the predetermined limit.

Depending on the applicant’s preferences and capabilities, an application for additional benefits may be submitted:

• in person at the ZUS branch,
• by letter,
• electronically through the ZUS Electronic Services Platform (PUE).

The application can also be submitted on someone's behalf - this applies to people who, due to health reasons, cannot sign the document themselves. You can authorize a proxy to do so, who can be a legal guardian, a family member or another close person.

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The supplementary benefit is paid monthly, on a date set by ZUS. The money can be received:

• by bank transfer,
• postal order, delivered by the postman.

People applying for the benefit themselves choose a convenient method of payment.