ZUS sends letters with a surcharge of PLN 450. Only 14 days to answer – thousands of Poles throw them away

In fresh months Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) began sending letters indicating the anticipation of utilizing subsidies of PLN 450. Unfortunately, the deficiency of public awareness and knowing of the content of these writings makes thousands of Poles ignore them or throw them away, losing the chance for additional financial benefits.

What is the surcharge of PLN 450 from ZUS?

From September 1, 2023 the amended regulation of the Minister of household and Social Policy, which increases the amount of exemption from the cover of ZUS for the co-financing of staff meals from 300 PLN to 450 PLN per month. This means that employers can finance meals for employees up to this amount without having to pay social safety contributions.

Why is ZUS sending letters?

ZUS informs employers about the fresh possibilities of co-financing meals for employees. The introduction of a higher cap on the exemption from cover-up is intended to encourage entrepreneurs to offer additional worker benefits, which can aid improve working conditions and increase the satisfaction of employees.

14 days to answer – what does that mean?

In any cases, especially where the letter concerns administrative decisions, the recipient has 14 days to lodge any appeals or additional documents. Failure to respond within this period may consequence in a decision being finalised or the anticipation of benefiting from the benefits offered is lost.

Why do Poles ignore these letters?

There are respective reasons why the recipients do not pay attention to the correspondence from the Social safety Office:

• No knowing of content – the authoritative language utilized in authoritative writings can be complicated, which discourages reading them.
• Low awareness – not everyone is aware of the changes made and the benefits they may consequence from.
• Fear of additional formalities – Many employers avoid engaging in fresh procedures for fear of bureaucracy.

Consequences of ignoring correspondence with ZUS

Failure to know the contents of letters from the Social Insurance Institution may lead to:

• Loss of financial benefits – unaware of the anticipation of utilizing fresh reliefs or subsidies.
• Legal problems – failure to respond to crucial administrative decisions may consequence in sanctions or failure of rights.

What to do after receiving a letter from the Social Insurance Institution?

To avoid undesirable consequences, it is recommended that:

1. Accurate reading of the writing – knowing the content will let for appropriate action.
2. Consultation with an accountant or lawyer – the specialist will aid in the explanation of the writing and will indicate the best solutions.
3. Timely action – if the letter requires answer or transportation of documents, this must be done within the prescribed time.

Changes in the rules on the co-financing of staff meals are a good chance for both employers and workers. However, the deficiency of appropriate communication and knowing of these changes leads to a situation where many entitled do not benefit from the available benefits. Therefore, it is so crucial to pay attention to correspondence with the Social safety Office and to make informed decisions based on reliable information.