Seniors in Poland can number on additional financial support in the form of an energy lump sum. This monthly cash benefit, presently PLN 299.82, is intended to cover the costs of energy, gas and heating. Moreover, this benefit can be inherited by loved ones, making them not only a form of current assistance, but besides a long-term safety for the elder family. In this article, we will discuss in item who can benefit from this support and how to get it.
What is an energy lump sum?
The energy flat is simply a benefit paid by the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) to eligible pensioners. The amount of almost PLN 300 per period is intended to cover the costs of electricity, gas and heating bills. This additional financial support is an crucial part of the budget of many seniors, especially in the face of rising energy media prices.
Moreover, the energy lump sum is subject to yearly valorisation. The amount of this valorisation is announced by the Head of the Office for Combatants and Represented Persons until the 7th working day of February each year, which means that the amount of the benefit may increase depending on inflation and another economical factors.
Who is entitled to an energy lump sum?
However, an energy flat is not available to all pensioners. This benefit shall be granted only to a certain group of persons who meet strict criteria. In accordance with the rules, the following shall be eligible for an energy lump sum:
- Combatants and another entitled persons – persons who have legally obtained the position of a combatant, as well as persons repressed by totalitarian regimes, including participants in the fight for independence.
- Military substitute soldiers – forced to work in coal mines, quarries, uranium ores and construction battalions.
- Widows and widowers – pensioners and pensioners remaining after the combatants and another persons entitled to meet the statutory requirements.
- Widows from forced soldiers – they must collect a pension in order to get a benefit.
How do I get the energy lump sum?
In order to receive the energy lump sum, it is essential to submit an appropriate application to the Social Insurance Institution. Applicants must attach the required documents, specified as the decision of the Chief of the Office for Combatants and Repressed Persons, a certificate from the Military Complementary Command or the competent military body. This process, although it requires the provision of circumstantial documents, can be an crucial financial support, which is over time subject to valorisation.
Inheritance of the energy lump sum
One of the most interesting and unique aspects of the energy lump sum is the anticipation of inheriting it. In the event of the death of the rightholder, this benefit may be taken over by the closest family, provided that certain criteria are met. The inheritance of the energy lump sum so constitutes not only financial support for the senior, but besides a form of safety for his loved ones.
Inheritance of the energy lump sum is carried out on akin terms as inheritance of another pension benefits, meaning that widows, widowers and another entitled persons may proceed to collect this benefit after the death of the first entitled.
Summary
An energy flat is an crucial financial support for seniors, especially those who have the position of a combatant or a soldier who is forced to be employed. This provision helps to cover rising costs of energy, gas and heating, and its yearly valorisation provides an adjustment to changing economical conditions. The anticipation of inheriting an energy lump sum is an additional asset that provides financial safety for the closest rightholders.
If you are entitled to this benefit or think you can meet the criteria, do not hold – apply to ZUS and get support that can importantly improve your home budget.
Daniel Głogowski
Expert in his field – Publicist, author and social activist. The first articles were published in 1999 for global publishers. For more than 30 years, he has gained his experience through cooperation with the largest editorial offices. In his articles, he seeks to address controversial topics and present first viewpoints that allowed for a deeper knowing of the issues discussed.
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Energy lump sum for seniors – everything you request to know
