Poland to launch senior care voucher program offering up to 2,150 zł monthly

The Polish government is preparing to launch a new financial support program aimed at assisting families with the care of elderly relatives. Dubbed the "senior voucher," the initiative plans to offer up to 2,150 Polish zloty (approximately $530 USD) per month to help cover essential care services for seniors.

The program targets individuals aged 75 and above who require assistance with daily functioning and live in their own homes. It is designed to support working adults who are balancing their professional responsibilities with the care of aging parents or grandparents. However, seniors residing permanently in social welfare homes or long-term care facilities will not be eligible for this benefit.

Eligibility for the senior voucher is contingent on several factors, including the senior's income. Combined pension and care allowances must not exceed 3,410 Polish zloty gross per month. Crucially, the voucher funds will not be disbursed as cash directly to the senior. Instead, they must be exclusively used for approved care services, such as shopping assistance, meal preparation, personal hygiene support, appointment scheduling, and administrative tasks. The exact amount of support will be determined by an assessment of the senior's needs and the required hours of assistance, conducted by social welfare workers.

Applications for the senior voucher will be accepted starting September 1, 2026. Notably, the application must be submitted by the senior's child or grandchild, who must also meet specific criteria. Applicants need to be gainfully employed, demonstrating at least three months of business activity for entrepreneurs. Income thresholds also apply to the applicant, varying based on whether they live in a single-person or multi-person household, ranging from 3,500 to 10,000 Polish zloty gross per month. This program aims to provide tangible support to families navigating the challenges of elder care while maintaining employment.