We do not make any revolution, but we adapt the programme to the parents’ expectations and needs. Even today, the vast majority of applications for the benefit are submitted online and the payment of 500+ is made by transfer to the account – says the Minister of Family and Social Policy Marlena Maląg and adds that those parents who, after the changes, will have problems with submitting an online application on their own, can expect assistance.

During the period of submitting applications for the child-support benefit in each ZUS unit, computers will be made available to interested customers where it will be possible to complete the application, also with the assistance of a ZUS employee. It is also planned to create in this period additional, mobile application submission points in other establishments or offices (e.g. Post Office, KRUS)

Family 500+ handled by ZUS

It is the Social Insurance Institution, not the municipalities (as it has been so far) that will deal with the service of the programme. This means significant savings. According to estimates, this change will reduce the costs of handling the “Family 500+” programme by about PLN 3.1 billion in the years 2022-2032.

Let us reiterate that this year the Social Insurance Institution already took over the service of the “Good Start” programme.

Important dates!

The Act will enter into force on 1 January 2022. As from this date, ZUS will pay the benefits it grants on an ongoing basis, and from 1 February 2022 it will accept applications for subsequent periods, i.e. from 1 June 2022. The payment of benefits granted before 1 January 2022 will be handled by the municipalities (by 31 May 2022 at the latest).