Pensions and benefits at risk in the event of war? The government makes this clear.

The tense international situation is causing those receiving state benefits to increasingly question whether they can count on continued pension and benefit payments in the event of war. However, historical examples, as well as the experience of countries affected by armed conflict, show that social systems can function even in difficult times.

In Poland, approximately eight million retirees and pensioners currently receive benefits. For most of them, these are their main, and often only, sources of income. It's no wonder that in a crisis, questions arise about the continuity of transfers .

Following the recent drone incidents over Poland, many people have begun to fear not only for their safety but also for their financial stability. However, it's worth remembering that the right to social security is guaranteed by the Polish Constitution (Article 67) . While the chapter on states of emergency (e.g., martial law) allows for temporary restrictions, in practice, withholding payments would only be possible in the event of a serious state of emergency. The pension system provides for special emergency procedures .

Moreover, even during such dark times as World War II, the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) continued to operate. Although the institution was managed by German occupiers and faced financial difficulties, the insurer managed to deliver funds to eligible individuals.

SEE: He went to prison - what about his pension or retirement benefits? The regulations are strict.

"ZUS became the only center of assistance for Polish society exhausted by the occupation," the Institute emphasizes, adding that in 1943, payments were made to 105,000 people.

A more recent example is Ukraine, where, despite the ongoing war, pensions and disability benefits are still regularly distributed to eligible individuals. Benefits are paid by the national postal operator and authorized banks.

This is happening despite the ongoing war, and it should be noted that even before its outbreak, Ukraine was already struggling with structural and economic problems.

The current financial situation of the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) is also not a cause for concern. In the first half of 2025, PLN 190 billion in contributions were credited to its account. The institution's president, Zbigniew Derdziuk, emphasized in an interview with the Polish Press Agency (PAP): "The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) has been operating for 91 years and has been reliably paying benefits." He also made it clear that procedures are in place for dealing with difficult situations. When asked about a possible blackout, he assured that in the event of a power outage, continuity of service would be ensured by special devices .

SEE: Seniors will receive a transfer in September. This time, it won't be from ZUS.

In light of this information, it can be concluded that even in the face of a serious crisis, the threat may be, at most, temporary organizational difficulties . However, a complete suspension of pension, disability, or benefit payments is unlikely, and appropriate procedures have already been prepared for unforeseen situations.