ZUS Reminder: Students & Pupils – survivors Pension & Continuing Education Certificates – October Deadline
The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) has issued a reminder regarding the continuation of survivor’s pensions for students and pupils over the age of 16. Maintaining eligibility for thes benefits requires demonstrating ongoing education. Here’s a breakdown of the key details and deadlines,especially focusing on requirements for October 2024.
General Rule: Certificate Requirements
Generally, students and pupils receiving a survivor’s pension must provide ZUS with a certificate of continuing education each year to ensure uninterrupted benefit payments. If a student or pupil receives an education certificate covering a period longer than one year, ZUS will pay the pension continuously for the duration specified in the certificate, without requiring annual resubmission. However, certificates valid for only one year necessitate annual updates.
October Deadline - Who Needs to Act?
ZUS is emphasizing specific actions required before the end of October 2024 to avoid interruption of benefits:
- Students Continuing Studies (One-Year Certificate): students who continued their studies into the 2025/2026 academic year and whose previous certificate of study was issued for only one year, must submit a new certificate confirming their continued enrollment for the next academic year, along with an application for continued payment of the survivor’s pension.
- new University Students: High school graduates admitted to the first year of university studies in the 2025/2026 academic year (likely starting in September 2024) who have already submitted an application for continued pension payment with proof of admission, must supplement that documentation with a certificate from the university confirming the commencement of their studies.
Important Notes Regarding Timing:
* September Starters: Students over 16 who began their studies in September were expected to submit their continuing education certificate and application last month. Submissions received by the end of October will prevent benefit forfeiture going forward, but the September benefit will be lost.
* October Starters: Students beginning their academic year in October must submit an application for continued pension payment and a certificate of continuing education by October 31, 2024, to avoid suspension of benefits.
Obligation to Report Changes
Any student or pupil over 16 receiving a survivor’s pension who interrupts or completes their education before the date indicated on their submitted certificate must inform ZUS promptly. Failure to do so will result in the requirement to repay any overpaid pension amounts, along with accrued interest.
Legal Basis: Act of december 17, 1998 on pensions and annuities from the Social Insurance Fund (consolidated text: Journal of Laws of 2024, item 1631, as amended).
