Will I get the 13th and 14th pension?
The 13th yes, the 14th — depending on your pension size. The 13th pension is due to all entitled to a pension, in an equal amount equal to the lowest pension — in 2026, after indexation, that's 1,978.49 zł gross. It's paid automatically with the April benefit. The 14th pension works similarly, but with an income criterion: the full amount (also 1,978.49 zł gross) goes to those whose benefit doesn't exceed 2,900 zł gross. Above that threshold the "zloty for zloty" rule applies — the 14th shrinks by the excess, and above 4,828.49 zł gross it isn't due at all. The 14th is usually paid with the September benefit. Neither needs to be applied for.
📋 The rules
- 13th: for all, equal to the lowest pension (1,978.49 zł)
- 13th paid with the April benefit
- 14th: full up to a 2,900 zł benefit
- Above 2,900 zł: the "zloty for zloty" rule
- No 14th above 4,828.49 zł gross
🔓 Exceptions
- 14th: reduced above the 2,900 zł threshold (zloty for zloty)
- Minimum benefits are paid only with the required contribution record
- Amounts and thresholds change yearly after indexation
⚠️ Penalties & fines
The 13th and 14th pensions need no application — ZUS pays them automatically to those entitled. But remember the 14th is income-dependent: with a benefit above 2,900 zł it's reduced, and above 4,828.49 zł gross it's not due at all. These benefits are taxed and subject to contributions on general terms (the net amount is lower than gross). If you draw a benefit wrongly (e.g. despite exceeding the threshold), ZUS can demand repayment. To know what to expect: check your gross pension against the thresholds (2,900 and 4,828.49 zł), note the payment dates (April and September), and remember the amounts are indexed each year.
📎 Official sources
- ZUS · 13th and 14th pension →
- ISAP · Act on the additional annual cash benefit →
- Gov.pl · Benefits for seniors →
❓ Frequently asked
How much is the 13th pension in 2026?
After March indexation it's 1,978.49 zł gross — the same as the lowest pension. The 13th goes to everyone entitled to a pension, in an equal amount regardless of their basic benefit. It's paid together with the April benefit.
Who is entitled to the 14th pension?
The 14th targets people with lower benefits. The full 1,978.49 zł gross goes to pensioners whose benefit doesn't exceed 2,900 zł gross. Above that threshold the 14th is reduced, and above 4,828.49 zł gross it isn't due at all.
How does the "zloty for zloty" rule work for the 14th?
If the basic benefit exceeds the 2,900 zł gross threshold, the 14th is reduced by each zloty of the excess. So the support shrinks gradually rather than vanishing suddenly — up to the upper cap of 4,828.49 zł gross, above which the benefit isn't due.
Do I have to apply for the 13th and 14th pension?
No. Both benefits are paid automatically by ZUS together with the relevant benefit — the 13th in April and the 14th usually in September. No application is needed, provided you meet the statutory conditions, including the income criterion for the 14th.
Are the 13th and 14th pensions taxed?
As a rule they're taxed and subject to contributions on general terms, so the net amount is lower than gross. The size of deductions depends on the recipient's situation. The gross amounts of both benefits are indexed each year, like pensions.
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