The indexation of pensions and disability benefits in 2026 is expected to be exceptionally low. According to plans from the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, the adjustment rate will amount to just 4.9%. The ministry cites declining inflation as the primary reason for this decision.
2026 Pension Indexation – Shocking Proposals
Less than two months ago, the government adopted a forecast document outlining key economic indicators for the coming years, including inflation and wage growth. At that time, the indexation rate for pensions and disability benefits in 2026 was projected to reach 5.5%. However, due to changing economic conditions, those forecasts are now partially outdated. Based on the latest calculations, the expected rate will be lower.
In the recently presented proposals for 2026, including those concerning benefit increases for seniors, it was indicated that the indexation rate would not fall below 4.9%. In light of the discrepancy between the initial estimates and the latest data, the daily Fakt reached out to the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy requesting clarification on these changes.
According to the document, “the indexation rate corresponds to the average annual increase in consumer prices for goods and services in the preceding calendar year, increased by at least 20% of the real growth in the average salary in the same year.”
Fakt calculated that if the indexation rate is 4.9%, the minimum pension will increase from PLN 1,878.92 gross to PLN 1,970.98 gross – an increase of only PLN 83. The higher the pension, the larger the increase. For instance, a pensioner receiving a benefit of PLN 6,000 gross would see an increase of PLN 145.39.
Serious Controversy over the Minimum Wage Increase
The Council of Ministers recently proposed that the minimum monthly wage in 2026 should be set at PLN 4,806. This would mean an increase of just PLN 140 compared to the current rate. Additionally, a 3% pay raise has been proposed for employees in the public sector, which is significantly below the demands of trade unions.
“90 groszy. That is the raise the government of Donald Tusk dares to offer as an ‘increase’ in the hourly wage for 2026. It is an insult to millions of workers in Poland,” – stated Piotr Duda, chairman of the “Solidarity” trade union, in an official statement.