The ZUS funeral benefit

Qualifying situations include the death of a ZUS-insured person, a pension recipient, or an eligible family member of a covered person. Other categories also qualify, so use the official criteria rather than assuming that nationality or having worked in Poland is enough.

For deaths from 1 January 2026, the family rate is PLN 7,000. Where someone outside the recognised family categories pays, the award is limited to documented costs up to PLN 7,000. If several people share the costs, the benefit is divided proportionately.

Tell ZUS about relevant insurance, pension or benefit status and your relationship to the deceased. If KRUS or an overseas system is involved, ask which institution should handle the claim.

Official ZUS eligibility and amount rules

• Complete the current Z-12 application.
• Keep invoices and other evidence of the funeral costs you met.
• Prepare identity, relationship and insurance evidence relevant to the case.
• Supply death-record details; ZUS can obtain some Polish civil records itself.

The usual deadline is 12 months from death. If circumstances wholly outside your control prevented this, such as later identification, a different deadline may apply. Ask ZUS about the exception and supporting evidence promptly.

Official application instructions and Z-12 form link

You can submit through ZUS, including its online service, or through a funeral home. An appropriate authorisation allows all or part of the benefit to be paid to the funeral home's account.

Złoty Liść offers this settlement for eligible arrangements. Agree the complete funeral cost, the amount to be credited and any remaining payment before authorising services. Also agree what happens if ZUS awards less, refuses the claim or needs more time.

The benefit is not a guaranteed funeral price or a promise that no advance payment will be needed.

How our direct benefit settlement works