The 800 Plus program, a cornerstone of Poland’s family support policies, is facing potential revisions. Initially created and implemented by the previous government under Beata Szydło and Mateusz Morawiecki, the program may see significant changes despite assurances that its current framework will hold through June 2025.
Budget Deficit and Reform Discussions
Concerns over Poland’s growing budget deficit have sparked debates on program sustainability. The 2025 state budget allocates PLN 62.8 billion for 800 Plus, but fiscal pressures are driving discussions on spending cuts. Measures like introducing income criteria or freezing new benefits are now under consideration to rationalize public finances.
The ruling coalition remains divided on implementing changes. Finance Minister assurances that the program will remain unchanged until mid-2025 offer little comfort. Analysts suggest that if a government-aligned president is elected, reforms to family benefit programs could accelerate after the presidential elections.