A change in the method of paying pensions and annuities by ZUS, which would transfer the benefit only to bank accounts, would affect thousands of seniors. Many of them still prefer to receive funds in cash, and some do not have a bank account.
Being forced to open a bank account could be troublesome for them and arouse resistance. The proposal to change the way ZUS transfers benefits is not new, but has recently returned in a slightly changed form. The Ministry of Family responded to the ZUS proposal,
Changes to pension payments. ZUS offers payments only to the account
As “Fakt” explains, ZUS wanted all pensions to go exclusively to bank accounts. The savings from this change would be allocated to the development of an IT system serving seniors.
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According to calculations by “Gazeta Prawna”, the cost of a bank transfer is only 9 groszy, and a postal order – almost PLN 20. With millions of payments per month, the difference means hundreds of millions of zlotys per year.
The proposal to change the method of paying pensions appeared in connection with the draft law abolishing the obligation to submit income certificates by previous retirees and disability pensioners.
Changes to pension payments. The family resort responds
As “Fakt” explains, ZUS argued that over 81 percent benefits go to accounts, and switching to transfers would save money and improve the system.
Already in 2021, the obligation to pay benefits only to bank accounts was analyzed. Now ZUS wants to delete the provision allowing payments by postal operators and introduce the principle: benefits only in non-cash form. The change would mainly apply to new retirees and pensioners.
Supporters of the changes point to safety – less cash means less risk of attacks on postmen and convenience for seniors. Opponents emphasize that having a bank account should not be an obligation, just like using a mobile phone. Many seniors value traditional cash transfers.
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As “Gazeta Prawna” explained, a significant change in the payment of benefits could come into force in 2027 at the earliest. The legislative process has only just begun, but there are many indications that it will be rejected. As “Fakt” found out, the Ministry of Family did not support ZUS's proposal. The justification emphasized that such a change goes beyond the scope of the bill currently being processed. Seniors can therefore sleep soundly – cash payments remain unchanged for now.
