ZUS is changing important rules for retirees and disability pensioners. There will be more money

The limits are announced by the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) based on data from the Central Statistical Office (GUS) and are of key importance for beneficiaries who have not reached the standard retirement age. Below we discuss in detail the new values, those subject to the restrictions and those who are exempt from them.

New ZUS limits from December 1, 2024

The limits for supplementing pensions and annuities are set in relation to the average monthly salary in the national economy, published by the Central Statistical Office. The latest data indicate that the average monthly salary for the third quarter of 2024 was PLN 8,161.62. This is an increase of PLN 123.21 compared to the previous quarter, when the remuneration was PLN 8,038.41.

Based on this data, the following limits were established:

• 70% of the average salary – PLN 5,713.13. Exceeding this amount means a reduction in your pension or disability pension.

• 130% of the average salary – PLN 10,610.10. Reaching or exceeding this threshold results in suspension of benefit payment.

Who do the limits apply to?

The limits apply to people who:

• They receive a pension or disability pension from the Social Insurance Fund (FUS).

• They have not reached the common retirement age, i.e. 60 for women and 65 for men.

These people must pay special attention to their income, because exceeding the indicated thresholds may affect the amount of their benefit.

Example:

Mrs. Maria, a 62-year-old retiree, earns extra money under an employment contract and earns PLN 6,000 gross per month. Because her income exceeds the threshold of 70% of the average salary (PLN 5,713.13), ZUS will reduce her pension. However, if she earns more than PLN 10,610.10, her benefit will be suspended.

Who does not apply to earning limits?

According to the regulations, not all retirees and pensioners have to worry about earning limits. They can earn without restrictions:

• People who have reached the general retirement age:

• Women over 60 years of age.

• Men over 65 years of age.

• Beneficiaries receiving special or survivors’ pensions, including:

• Pensions for war invalids.

• Pensions for military invalids.

• Survivors’ pensions of persons entitled to these benefits.

According to ZUS, in the case of survivors’ pensions, if the benefit is more favorable than the old-age pension, it is paid in full, regardless of additional income.

How have the limits changed compared to previous periods?

Data for the third quarter of 2024 show an increase in the average salary compared to previous years.

For comparison: in December 2023, the average salary was approximately PLN 7,900, which meant that 70% was approximately PLN 5,530 and 130% – PLN 10,270. During the year, the average salary increased by approximately 4%.