Do you have a family member turning 100? Find out about the honorary benefit available to Poland’s oldest citizens and whether it is paid by ZUS or KRUS.
What is the honorary benefit for people who have reached 100?
The honorary benefit is a unique form of financial support granted to people who have reached their 100th birthday. It is a tangible form of recognition for longevity: a symbolic but regular sum paid regardless of the centenarian’s income.
Who pays the honorary benefit – ZUS or KRUS?
The rule is simple:
- If a person who has reached 100 receives a pension or disability benefit from ZUS (the Social Insurance Institution), the honorary benefit is paid by ZUS.
- Centenarians receiving benefits from KRUS (the Agricultural Social Insurance Fund), such as a farmer’s pension, receive support from KRUS.
No special application is needed – both institutions identify the birthday recipients on their own.
Exceptions and special cases
There are cases where ZUS does not have documents confirming the centenarian’s age. In such situations, documents must be provided, e.g. an identity card or an extract from the birth certificate.
How much is the honorary benefit in 2025?
The amount is not fixed – it depends on the current average salary and decisions made by lawmakers.
Example from 2025:
- The benefit paid by ZUS to centenarians is about PLN 6,246.94 per month – it is a sum granted once for life, literally “forever”.
- KRUS also pays the honorary benefit to centenarians according to the general rule – the amounts may differ, but they usually remain at a similar level.
Payment procedure and documents – what do you need to know?
In the vast majority of cases, no paper applications are required – ZUS and KRUS will identify the eligible person themselves based on the PESEL national ID register.
In special situations, when the system does not contain complete data:
- An application must be submitted in person or through an authorised representative
- An identity document and an extract from the birth certificate must be attached
Why is it worth knowing about the honorary benefit?
For many families it is an important financial boost and a symbol of state recognition for reaching a venerable age. It is similar to rewarding athletes for records – in this case, the “record” is the length of life.
Key information at a glance
- The honorary benefit for centenarians is paid by ZUS or KRUS – depending on the source of the earlier pension.
- The current amount in 2025 is about PLN 6,247 – a one-time payment for life.
- Most eligible people receive the benefit automatically, without applying.
This support is not only additional funds but also a gesture of recognition for Poland’s oldest citizens. If you have a centenarian in your family, it is worth checking that the formalities are completed and that the benefit will be paid correctly.
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