Recalculation of pension can lead to a higher benefit if new circumstances affect the amount. Continued employment, missing documents, or regulatory changes may each justify submitting a request. In this article, we explain who can apply for pension recalculation. You will also learn when it’s worth doing so, and what the procedure looks like. Read further to find out how to properly complete the ERPO form and submit it to the Social Insurance Institution in Poland (ZUS).
Table of Contents
- When Is It Worth Submitting a Pension Recalculation Request?
- How to Complete the ERPO Application Step By Step?
- Where to Submit the Application for Pension Recalculation?
- Who Can Apply For Pension Recalculation?
- Which documents should you attach to the pension recalculation application?
- Recalculation of Pension in 2025 – Summary
- FAQ – Questions and Answers about the Recalculation of Pension
When Is It Worth Submitting a Pension Recalculation Request?
The ERPO form can be submitted in various situations—not only when the pension account balance increases. You may qualify if you:
- Did not have all the necessary documents for insurance periods at the time of your original application, which the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) can now consider.
- Can now document your earnings from a period before retirement or after receiving pension benefits.
- Continued working or paid social security contributions after retirement.
It is also worth considering application if:
- the pension was granted before reaching the retirement age, and the beneficiary is switching to the standard retirement pension,
- changes in regulations allow for more favourable benefit calculation,
- there is now a possibility of applying more favourable life expectancy tables.
Legal basis: The Act of 17 December 1998, on Pensions and Disability Pensions from the Social Insurance Fund. Especially Articles 108–113.
What is important, there is another favourable factor in requesting the recalculation of pension. Even if the recalculated amount is lower, ZUS will continue to pay the benefit at the previous rate.
How to Complete the ERPO Application Step By Step?
The ERPO application is available in both paper and electronic forms. Complete it using capital letters, clearly, with either a blue or black ink pen. Pencils are not allowed.The form consists of 8 sections. They include applicant data, benefit information, the scope of the request, and the method for receiving the decision.
Key elements:
- Section 1 contains the technical instructions,
- Section 2 is the applicant’s identification and address data,
- Section 3 requires the type and number of the benefit and the ZUS branch.
- Section 4 is where you indicate the basis for recalculation.
- Sections 5–7 cover attachments, method of contact, and signature.
| Section | Description |
| 1 | Technical guidelines and rules for completing the application. |
| 2 | PESEL number or other ID details; name, surname, address, and country (if not Poland). |
| 3 | Type and number of the pension document, ZUS branch info, foreign data if applicable. |
| 4 | Choice of recalculation basis (e.g., new contributions, non-contributory periods). |
| 5-7 | Attachments, method of informing about the decision, confirmation of accuracy, date, and signature. |
Find the current ERPO form on the ZUS website.
Where to Submit the Application for Pension Recalculation?
The application can be submitted in person at the nearest ZUS office. You can also send it preferably by registered letter with confirmation of receipt. Another possibility is to do it online via the ZUS Electronic Services Platform (PUE ZUS).
Forms of applying:
- personally
- by letter
- by PUE ZUS.
The waiting time for the decision is a maximum of 60 days.
Who Can Apply For Pension Recalculation?
Eligible individuals include those who continued work after retiring and women who raised children before 1999. Another eligible group is people who pursued higher education studies before 1999.
In addition, the application may be submitted by:
- Individuals with foreign insurance periods (e.g., EU, EFTA, countries with bilateral agreements),
- Those who want to change the income period used as the basis for benefit calculation.
Which documents should you attach to the pension recalculation application?
Attachments to the ERPO application increase the chances of a positive decision. You should include income certificates, especially from former employers, and documents confirming employment, such as contracts and work certificates. Also, enclose certificates of completed studies and documents related to childcare.
It is also worth including:
- documents confirming foreign insurance,
- documents related to “zero periods” — without them, ZUS applies the minimum wage.
Recalculation of Pension in 2025 – Summary
Submitting an ERPO application can be a simple and effective step to obtain a higher pension. You can fill out the application yourself and submit it in person or online. The recalculation may take into account both additional contributions and non-contributory periods, a new assessment basis or more favourable life expectancy tables.
Please note that:
- ZUS cannot refuse to accept the request for recalculation of the pension,
- The recalculation never results in a reduction of the benefit,
- You will receive a decision within 60 days.
If you’re unsure whether you’re entitled to a higher pension, contact a lawyer. Legal assistance can significantly improve your chances of success.
FAQ – Questions and Answers about the Recalculation of Pension
What is the ERPO application?
A form submitted to ZUS (Social Insurance Institution in Poland) to recalculate the pension.
Can ZUS refuse to accept the application?
No. ZUS must accept every application if it is correctly submitted.
Can the pension be reduced after recalculation?
No. Your current pension amount is protected.
Can I apply online?
Yes – through the PUE ZUS Platform.
How often can I request a recalculation?
Not earlier than after one year or after the insurance has ended.
What documents should I attach to the application?
Certificates of work, earnings, studies, childcare, insurance abroad.
Is it more advantageous to apply on your birthday?
Yes – more favourable life expectancy tables apply then.
Where can I find the current ERPO form?
On the zus.pl website.
Do I have to calculate my entire pension?
No – you can select only specific elements to be calculated.
How long does it take to process the application?
Up to 60 days from the submission of the complete form.
