Retirees Take Note: Strategic Timing Could Boost 2026 Pensions by Hundreds of Zlotys
Pensions are set to increase in 2026, but the when of yoru retirement application can significantly impact the amount you receive. Strategic timing – specifically retiring in january or February – could result in a pension increase of several hundred zlotys compared to applying later in the year, according to recent analysis of the upcoming indexation changes. This is crucial information for individuals planning their retirement in the coming months.
The annual pension indexation, taking effect in June, is the key factor.Those who retire before the indexation are subject to a full year of increases,while those who retire after miss out on the benefits for that period. The amount of the increase depends on the current pension amount, with higher pensions seeing larger absolute gains.
Here’s a breakdown of estimated “on-hand” increases after indexation in 2026, based on current gross pension amounts:
* PLN 2,000 gross: +PLN 89
* PLN 2,200 gross: +PLN 98.10
* PLN 2,400 gross: +PLN 96
* PLN 2,600 gross: +PLN 100.65
* PLN 3,000 gross: +PLN 116.13
* PLN 3,200 gross: +PLN 123.87
* PLN 3,400 gross: +PLN 131.61
* PLN 3,600 gross: +PLN 139.36
* PLN 4,000 gross: +PLN 154.84
* PLN 4,500 gross: +PLN 174.19
* PLN 5,000 gross: +PLN 193.55
* PLN 5,500 gross: +PLN 212.90
* PLN 6,000 gross: +PLN 231.39
Conversely, applying for retirement in March, April, or May means missing the June increase altogether.
To ensure a smooth transition, retirees must terminate their employment contract no later than two days before the end of the month and submit their pension application, along with an employment certificate, to the ZUS (Social Insurance Institution) by the end of the same month. Meeting these deadlines guarantees uninterrupted income - receiving final remuneration and the first pension payment without delay.