The concept of «alcohol pension» has long evoked strong emotions. According to many, this is a pension from ZUS that is received «for drinking.» Although the amount of this payment may surprise, the reality of this benefit is far from common belief.
Although ZUS has repeatedly denied that it pays a special «alcohol pension,» there are still many people who believe that there is a benefit specifically designed for alcoholics. In reality, this is a colloquial term for a payment for individuals who have lost their ability to work due to alcohol dependence or its consequences.
Formally, the «alcohol pension» can be support for those who, due to various illnesses — including those related to alcohol — are no longer able to work.
How much is it and who can receive it?
People who have partially or completely lost their ability to work due to health conditions may be entitled to such benefits. Among the diseases leading to loss of work capacity, alcoholic disease may be included, but this does not mean that alcoholics automatically receive money from the state. The right to a pension is determined by a doctor based on many factors.
ZUS emphasized in one of its social media posts that there is no «alcohol pension» — «just as there is no pension for obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular problems.»
«A doctor determines incapacity for work based on examination, medical history, and medical documentation, considering many factors in combination: health condition, age, professional experience, overall psychophysical state, possibility of retraining and rehabilitation, education,» ZUS explained in a social media post.
It’s not that simple
ZUS also added that in addition to incapacity for work, it is necessary to meet conditions related to insurance history and the moment of the onset of this incapacity.
ZUS uses the International Statistical Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) to classify diseases. The list of codes includes, among others, mental disorders related to alcohol use (F10), alcoholic liver disease (K70), as well as toxic effects of alcohol (T51).
The amount of the payment depends on the degree of incapacity. As of March 1, 2026, the minimum pension for total incapacity is 1,978.49 PLN gross, and for partial incapacity — 1,483.87 PLN gross. The final amount may be higher if the person had a longer insurance history or higher earnings.
In the medical community, the term «alcohol pension» does not exist, as emphasized by a ZUS representative. This expression creates the impression that alcohol dependence itself grants the right to a payment, which is a mistaken simplification. Examples of diseases related to dependence, such as cirrhosis of the liver, chronic pancreatitis, or nervous system damage, are grounds for granting benefits.
Alcohol pension 2026: how much is it and who can receive it from ZUS
