Starting today, benefits will start being paid under the “Active Parent” program in Poland.

The program introduces the following benefits for working parents of children aged 12 to 35 months: the so-called grandmother’s allowance, nursery subsidies, and benefits for the parent caring for the child.

Parents whose children qualify for assistance will certainly feel the impact, writes Do Rzezcy. The benefit is available regardless of income, and the primary requirement for eligibility is the applicant’s professional activity. The benefit amounts to PLN 1,500 (€353) per month for each child, and for children with disabilities, this amount will be increased to PLN 1,900.

Under the “active at work” benefit, working parents will be able to enter into an agreement with a nanny, grandparent, or other caregiver. In this case, the state budget will finance contributions to pension, disability, accident, and health insurance for the caregiver at 50 percent of the minimum wage.

Another option in the “Active Parent” program is the “Active in Nursery” benefit, aimed at parents who choose to send their child to nursery. It is intended to replace the current subsidy of up to PLN 400 for childcare fees for children under the age of three. The benefit will be available to parents of children who attend nurseries, children’s clubs, or daycare providers.

Parents who quit their jobs and want to care for their children independently will be able to apply for the “active at home” benefit, which will be available for each child in the family aged 12 to 35 months. It will be paid at PLN 500 per month regardless of the parents’ income. The parents’ professional activity will not be taken into account in this case. 

Parents can choose whichever benefit best suits their needs.