The "Dobry Start" Programme in Poland: Who Can Receive 300 PLN and How to Apply

From 1 July, Poland's annual family support programme – „Dobry Start" – is launching once again, allowing families to receive 300 PLN towards preparing their child for the new school year.

This is a one-off benefit that is not means-tested and applies to all pupils attending schools in Poland.

Who Can Receive 300 PLN?

The financial benefit is available for every child who: ✔ is between 7 and 20 years old, ✔ is up to 24 years old, if the child has a certified disability, ✔ attends a school located in Poland.

Ukrainian families are also eligible for this payment, but only on the condition that the child is officially enrolled in a Polish educational institution. If the child attends, for example, a Ukrainian remote school and does not attend any educational institution in Poland, the benefit does not apply.

The programme does not cover: ✔ children attending so-called "zerówka" classes (pre-school preparatory groups), ✔ students in higher education institutions.

ZUS clarifies that age is calculated on an annual basis. This means that if a child turns 20 or 24 during the calendar year but is still attending school, the family is entitled to the payment.

How to Apply for "Dobry Start"?

Applications open on 1 July and will be accepted until the end of November 2025. Applications can only be submitted online, using one of the following methods: ✔ via the mZUS app, ✔ via the PUE ZUS platform, ✔ via online banking, ✔ or via the government portal Emp@tia.

The application requires: ✔ the bank account number to which the funds should be transferred; ✔ an email address; ✔ a phone number; ✔ information about the child (or children) and the school they attend (or plan to attend).

The application may be submitted not only by parents, but also by: ✔ adult pupils who are no longer financially dependent on their parents; ✔ individuals leaving foster care or a foster family.

If the application is correctly completed and submitted by 31 August, the payment will be made no later than 30 September.

What Can the Benefit Be Spent On?

This is a targeted payment for school supplies: textbooks, notebooks, stationery, a backpack, or other items needed for the school year. The funds are transferred to the applicant's personal account – and it is the applicant who decides how best to use them in the child's interest.

Dobry Start is a convenient form of support that makes it easier for parents to prepare for the new school year. It is particularly valuable for families who have recently moved to Poland or who have several school-age children. Applying is straightforward – what matters is not to miss the deadlines and to fill in all the details carefully.

Based on materials from Gazeta Prawna