How much is the unemployment benefit in 2026?

The base rate is PLN 1,584.55 gross per month. With up to 5 years of work history — 80% (approx. PLN 1,267), 5–20 years — 100% (approx. PLN 1,585), over 20 years — 120% (approx. PLN 1,901). Rates are indexed each year from 1 June.

Depends on work history: 80%, 100% or 120% of the base rate (PLN 1,584.55 in 2026).

What work history is required?

At least 365 days of insured employment within the last 18 months, with contributions to the Labour Fund. Maternity, paternity and parental leave count toward this period.

How long is the benefit paid?

Typically 6 months. 12 months apply to: unemployed persons aged 50+ with 20+ years of history, single parents of children under 15, and those in counties with unemployment above 150% of the national average.

Can I work while receiving the benefit?

No. Taking up gainful employment ends eligibility from the day work begins. This includes self-employment and seasonal work. You must notify the employment office immediately.

Data current as of 2026

Unemployment Benefit

Financial support for job seekers who have registered at the County Labor Office and meet the work history requirements.

Check other benefits for unemployed →

up to 1,790 PLN

miesięcznie

6-12 mo.

okres pobierania

1 year work

wymagany staż

When do you get the benefit?

Registration at PUP as an unemployed person
Worked min. 365 days in the last 18 months
Salary at least minimum wage with contributions paid

The benefit amount decreases after the first 90 days of receiving the payout.

Procedure

PUP

Personal visit or registration via the praca.gov.pl portal.

Questions about the benefit

How much is the unemployment benefit in 2026?: The base rate is PLN 1,584.55 gross per month. With up to 5 years of work history — 80% (approx. PLN 1,267), 5–20 years — 100% (approx. PLN 1,585), over 20 years — 120% (approx. PLN 1,901). Rates are indexed each year from 1 June.
What is the amount?: Depends on work history: 80%, 100% or 120% of the base rate (PLN 1,584.55 in 2026).
What work history is required?: At least 365 days of insured employment within the last 18 months, with contributions to the Labour Fund. Maternity, paternity and parental leave count toward this period.
How long is the benefit paid?: Typically 6 months. 12 months apply to: unemployed persons aged 50+ with 20+ years of history, single parents of children under 15, and those in counties with unemployment above 150% of the national average.
Can I work while receiving the benefit?: No. Taking up gainful employment ends eligibility from the day work begins. This includes self-employment and seasonal work. You must notify the employment office immediately.

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Verified by: Mateusz Jurek

•Last updated: 2026-04-22