In Poland, the problem of unequal pensions concerns respective tens of thousands of people who have received lower benefits than their peers over the years. The reason for this injustice was the 1999 pension strategy reform, which introduced a fresh way of calculating benefits for persons born after 1948.
What changed?
The draft fresh law, which was published on the website of the Chancellery of the president of the Council of Ministers, provides for the anticipation of recalculating the amount of pension for persons who switched to benefits in June 2009-2019. More favourable weightings will be introduced, corresponding to May of the year. Pensioners will be able to receive a higher benefit, paid from the period of application.
Conclusion to ZUS
In order to receive a higher benefit, pensioners will gotta apply to the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS). The application will be available in paper or electronic form. After its submission, ZUS will have 60 days to issue a decision, provided all the circumstances are explained.
Procedure for persons who have appealed to the court
Those who have already appealed the decision of ZUS to the court will be able to benefit from the fresh rules without further complications. Their proceedings will be suspended until the final result of the case.
What does that mean for pensioners?
The fresh bill will give a chance to compensate for injustice that has lasted for many years. Pensioners who apply will be able to receive higher benefits, which will have a major impact on their lives. It is crucial that these persons submit appropriate applications to the Social safety Office in order to be able to benefit from more favourable rules for the conversion of benefits.
Planned strategy changes
The fresh law besides aims to introduce systemic changes that will prevent akin problems in the future. The task assumes that the way in which quarterly premiums are calculated will be changed in order to offset seasonality in determining pensions. As a result, the period of retirement will no longer affect the amount of the benefit.
Date of entry into force of the fresh rules
The planned date of entry into force of the fresh regulations is 1 June 2025. This word is intended to supply time for both pensioners to prepare for changes and for institutions that request to adapt their systems and procedures to fresh requirements.
Conclusion
The fresh law gives a chance to compensate for injustice that lasted for many years. It is crucial that pensioners who retired in June apply to the Social safety Office in order to benefit from more favourable rules on the conversion of benefits. The government and pension institutions must now guarantee the smooth implementation of the fresh rules so that those who have been harmed can enjoy a fair, higher benefit as shortly as possible.
Current data
In Poland, according to GUS data, in 2020 there were over 6.3 million pensioners. According to ZUS data, in 2020 the average pension benefit amounted to PLN 2 444.86. The fresh law aims at equalising injustice and providing fair benefits for all pensioners.
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A fresh chance for pensioners: Government fixes pension strategy errors
