More and more Poles are living to be centenarians, a trend reflected in rising numbers receiving a special monthly honorarium from the government. As of this year, over four thousand Polish seniors are collecting the benefit, a significant increase from the approximately 1,900 who received it in 2018.
The honorarium, a supplemental payment to existing pensions or retirement funds, is now being automatically granted to those reaching 100 years of age, provided they are already receiving benefits from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). The amount of the honorarium is set to increase to 6,938.92 złoty gross per month in March, a rise of 349.25 złoty from the previous rate of 6,589.67 złoty, according to ZUS data.
The change stems from a law passed in October 2024, which established a legal basis for the honorarium and ensures its annual adjustment to account for inflation. Previously, the amount was tied to the base amount in effect on the centenarian’s birthday, resulting in varying payment levels.
Those who did not previously receive benefits from ZUS, such as women who left the workforce to raise children, are still required to apply for the honorarium at any ZUS office. However, for the vast majority of eligible seniors already receiving pensions or retirement funds, the benefit is awarded automatically.
Poland’s increasing longevity is part of a broader demographic trend. Data from the Central Statistical Office indicates that average life expectancy in Poland reached nearly 75 years for men and over 82 years for women in 2024 – the highest figures on record. Life expectancy has increased by 0.3 years for both men and women compared to 2023, and by 8.7 years for men and 7 years for women since 1990.
Researchers at Harvard University have identified five key factors contributing to longevity: eliminating harmful habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, poor diet, and being overweight. They emphasize that lifestyle choices, rather than genetics alone, play a significant role in determining lifespan.