Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społcznych

The Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) is a state-owned organizational unit with legal personality, responsible for collecting social and health insurance contributions and distributing benefits (e.g., pensions, disability benefits, sickness benefits, and maternity benefits) in amounts and under the terms established in generally applicable regulations.

ZUS was established on October 24, 1934, following a decision by President Ignacy Mościcki to merge five previously operating state insurance chambers. Since its establishment, it has been one of the most modern and well-organized institutions of its kind in the world.

Currently, approximately 24 million customers use ZUS services. The Social Insurance Fund, administered by ZUS, constitutes approximately 50% of the state's financial resources. The ZUS cannot independently set contribution or benefit levels, as, according to the Constitution, this remains the responsibility of the Parliament.

ZUS also manages the Demographic Reserve Fund, which—thanks to the accurate forecasts of its managers—achieves results comparable to those of the best commercial investment funds in Poland.