The government distributes 831 PLN per period for free. fewer people know about this supplement

In 2025 activation allowance may be even PLN 831 gross per monthand yet many eligible Poles do not apply for this benefit. This is alarming, given that this supplement represents crucial financial support for those returning to the labour marketplace after a period of unemployment.

What is an activation supplement?

Activation allowance is simply a cash benefit granted to unemployed persons who are entitled to unemployment benefit and who take up employment or another paid employment. In 2025 its amount is up to 50% unemployment benefitwhich translates into maximum PLN 831 gross per month for the first 90 days of having a right to benefit and then PLN 652,60 gross.

This benefit aims to encourage the unemployed to actively search and facilitate their return to the labour market.

Who can benefit from the activation allowance?

The activation allowance shall be granted in 2 cases:

1. Individuals who have taken up employment or another gainful employment on their own initiative – in this case, the allowance is paid for half of the period during which the unemployment benefit would be paid.
2. Persons assigned to work by the region labour office, who have taken part-time employment and receive a remuneration lower than the minimum – in this case, the allowance represents the difference between the minimum wage and the wage received, but not more than 50% of the allowance, and is paid throughout the period during which he would have been entitled to the benefit.

It is worth noting that the activation allowance does not apply to persons who:

• have taken up employment with an employer with whom they were employed before registration as unemployed,
• addressed to intervention or public works,
• took up work abroad,
• are on leave free of charge.

Why do Poles not usage the activation allowance?

Despite attractive conditions, many persons entitled to receive the activation allowance do not apply for this benefit. The reason may be a deficiency of awareness of the existence of specified support, complex administrative procedures or fear of failure of another benefits.

Experts stress that lack of information and adequate publicity from public institutions may lead to a situation where the funds allocated to support the unemployed are not utilized full effectively.

How to apply for an activation allowance?

In order to receive an activation allowance, it is essential to:

1. Take employment or another employment.
2. Request at the region employment office where you are registered as unemployed.
3. Attach papers confirming employment or another gainful work and the amount of remuneration achieved.

The application can be submitted in individual or electronically via the ePUAP platform, utilizing the trusted profile.

It's worth remembering that the activation allowance is due from the date of the applicationTherefore, the sooner it is submitted after taking up the job, the better.