Ulga at the start and preferential fees: support for new entrepreneurs in Poland

Are you dreaming of starting your own business in exciting Poland? To realize your entrepreneurial ambitions, you need to be aware of the amazing opportunities available to new entrepreneurs in this country. Ready to learn the secret to success? Curiosity draws you to the next sentence, where we will reveal all the secrets of start-up benefits and preferential contributions for entrepreneurs in Poland.

Glossary

• ZUS: Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych (Social insurance)
• Ulga at start: Benefit at the start (Start-up assistance )
• Start-up assistance: Financial support and tax incentives for new entrepreneurs in Poland
• Kod tytułu ubezpieczenia: Insurance code
• Obniżone składki ZUS: Reduced insurance contributions to ZUS (Social Insurance)

Ordinary payments in ZUS

Ordinary payments in Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych (ZUS) are standard insurance premiums that must be paid by entrepreneurs in Poland. They consist of contributions for social insurance, pension insurance and health insurance. Mandatory payments to ZUS are an integral part of the entrepreneur's activities and are usually collected on a monthly basis.

Start-up assistance (Ulga na start)

Start-up assistance or Ulga na start is a benefit program provided by the Polish government for new entrepreneurs. The purpose of this program is to ease the financial burden at the initial stage of business and stimulate the development of entrepreneurship in the country. Entrepreneurs participating in the program can receive an exemption from certain ZUS insurance premiums for a certain period of time.

Who can count on Start-up assistance

Start-up assistance is available to new entrepreneurs who registered their company after a certain date (specify date) and meet certain criteria. The criteria may include income level, employment status and other factors that are determined by the Polish government.

What fees will not have to be paid with Ulga na start

Entrepreneur participating in the Ulga program na start, is exempt from paying certain ZUS insurance contributions, such as social insurance contributions and pension and health insurance contributions. This allows entrepreneurs to save a significant amount of money at the initial stage of business development.

How long does Ulga at the start last

Ulga at the start is valid for a certain time period, which is determined by the Polish government. Typically this can be a period of 6 to 24 months, during which the entrepreneur is exempt from paying certain insurance contributions to ZUS.

How to start using Startup Help

In order to use Startup Help, an entrepreneur must register his company in accordance with the requirements of the Polish government. After registration, an entrepreneur can apply to participate in the Ulga na start program and receive official confirmation of his participation.

Kod tytułu ubezpieczenia

Kod tytułu ubezpieczenia, or insurance code, is a unique identifier that is used to determine the type of insurance that an entrepreneur must pay in ZUS. Insurance codes vary depending on the status of the entrepreneur, his activities and other factors.

Where and how to apply

An application for participation in the Ulga na start program should be submitted to the appropriate authority or institution designated by the Polish government. The application process usually involves providing certain documents and information about the entrepreneur and his business. The application may also require proof of income and employment status.

Declaration and completion of Ulga na start

After participating in the Ulga na start program, entrepreneur is obliged to declare his status and income to the relevant authority or institution designated by the Polish government. After passing the test and confirming the level of income, the state will determine when the Ulga na start benefit will end for the entrepreneur.

Switching to Obniżone składki ZUS for 24 months

Switching to Obniżone składki ZUS for 24 months is the next step after the end of the Ulga na start benefit program. Reduced insurance premiums in ZUS are provided to entrepreneurs for 24 months after the end of the benefit. This allows entrepreneurs to continue paying reduced social, pension and health insurance contributions.

Who can count on Obniżone składki ZUS

Reduced insurance premiums in ZUS are available to entrepreneurs who have successfully completed the Ulga na start program and continue their business activities. However, not all entrepreneurs can count on receiving this benefit; they must meet certain criteria established by the Polish government.

What contributions will you have to pay for 24 months

Entrepreneurs who have switched to reduced insurance premiums Obniżone składki ZUS are required to pay certain insurance premiums to ZUS for 24 months. Contributions include contributions for social insurance, pension insurance and health insurance, but in smaller amounts compared to the previous period.

When the benefit begins

The Obniżone składki ZUS benefit program begins to operate immediately after the end of the Ulga na start program. This means that entrepreneurs will be granted a reduction in ZUS insurance premiums immediately after the end of the grace period.

How to apply for Obniżone składki ZUS

Application for participation in the Obniżone składki ZUS program should be submitted to the appropriate authority or institution designated by the Polish government. The application may require the provision of certain documents and information about the entrepreneur and his business, as well as confirmation of income level and employment status.

When and how does the 24-month benefit end

The 24-month period of reduced insurance premiums Obniżone składki ZUS ends after 24 months have passed from the start of the program. After the end of the grace period, the entrepreneur will be required to pay the usual insurance contributions to ZUS, which are required for social, pension and health insurance.

Summary

Start-up benefits and preferential contributions for new entrepreneurs in Poland are important tools that help ease the financial burden in the first stages of a business. They provide an opportunity to receive financial support and tax benefits that contribute to the development of entrepreneurship in the country. However, to receive these benefits you must meet certain criteria and know the procedures and requirements set by the Polish government.

Regular payments to ZUS

One One of the important aspects that entrepreneurs in Poland face is regular payments to the Universal Insurance Mortgage (USI). Before we start looking at the various benefits and financial support options, let's take a closer look at what the standard fees that an entrepreneur must pay are.

When considering calculations in the ZUS, it is important to understand that certain contributions may be mandatory, while others may be voluntary. In some cases, all payments are mandatory, but in other situations, the entrepreneur may have the opportunity to choose voluntary insurance.

Let's take a closer look at the composition of payments to the ZUS:

• Pension insurance: the entrepreneur must contribute 19.52% of the base.
• Disability insurance: the rate is 8% of the base.
• Health insurance: contribution is 9% of the base.
• Health Insurance: Rate is 2.45% of base.
• Accident insurance: the payment amount can vary from 0.67% to 3.33% of the base. The most common rate is 1.67%.
• Labor Fund and Solidarity Fund: contributions are 2.45%.

It is important to note that the base rate in each case can be calculated differently and has its own restrictions. For example, the specified percentages can be applied to different amounts or income of the entrepreneur.

Now that we have looked at the standard payments in the ZUS, let's talk about how these basic payments can be optimized and improved within the framework of the preferential system for new entrepreneurs in Poland. In the next part of the article, we will look at the possibilities of obtaining financial support and tax benefits when starting your own business.

"Find out what payments an entrepreneur must pay to the ZUS and what optimization opportunities exist."

Start-up assistance and reduced fees for new entrepreneurs in Poland

Find out about start-up benefits and preferential contributions for new entrepreneurs in Poland. This article will provide you with all the information you need on how to get financial support and tax benefits when starting your own business.

Start-up assistance: Ulga na start

Already familiar to many entrepreneurs in Poland, Ulga na start is a tax benefit that can be applied during the first 6 months after opening of your business. It applies only to the entrepreneur himself and allows him to significantly reduce contributions to the social insurance system.

Individuals, including individual entrepreneurs JDG or members of civil partnerships spółek cywilnych, are given the opportunity to take advantage of Ulga na start if they are doing business in Poland for the first time or have not carried out business activities in the previous 60 months. An important condition is that the activity performed should not be associated with a person who, in the current or previous calendar year, was the employer of the businessman counting on benefits. In addition, the person must not be insured by KRUS.

Start-up assistance provides exemption from payment of the following contributions:

• Pension insurance
• Disability insurance
• Sickness insurance, while maintaining the opportunity to insure yourself voluntarily
• Accident insurance
• Contributions to the Labor Fund and the Solidarity Fund

Thus, the only mandatory payment remains the contribution to health insurance, while entrepreneurs have the right to include in their insurance ZUS for relatives without increasing the amount of payments.

Who can count on Start-up help

There are certain requirements for which you can use Ulga na start. This benefit applies only to individuals, that is, exclusively to individual entrepreneurs JDG or members of civil partnerships spółek cywilnych. To receive the benefit, a person must be engaged in business in Poland for the first time or have not carried out business activities for the previous 60 months. This period may include both liquidation of the business and suspension of activities. It is important that the activity performed is not associated with a person who, in the current or previous calendar year, was the employer of the entrepreneur counting on benefits. In addition, the person must not be insured by KRUS.

What fees you will not have to pay for Ulga na start

By choosing the Start Assistance system, you will not have to pay the following fees:

• Pension insurance
• Disability insurance
• Sickness insurance, while maintaining the opportunity to insure yourself voluntarily
• Accident insurance
• Contributions to the Labor Fund and Solidarity Fund

However, it is worth considering that the health insurance contribution remains a mandatory payment. The presence of Ulga na start does not affect the possibility of including relatives in the insurance without increasing the amount of payments. The absence of these payments means that the pension fund will not be replenished, sickness benefits will not be paid, and there is also no possibility of receiving funds in case of accidents. It is important to note that the benefit applies only to the businessman himself; for employees, if any, contributions are paid in full, in accordance with the requirements of their contracts.

How long does Ulga na start last

Starting help Ulga na start can be used within six months. In this case, the most important thing is the start date of the activity. If the business starts on the first day of the month, then the first month is included in the six preferential months. If the date differs from the first day, then month counting will begin from the next month.

For example, if a business started operating on May 1, then the grace period will last until October 31. If the entrepreneur started work on May 2, 3, 4, 5 or 31, then Start-up assistance will end on November 30. It is important to note that in the event of suspension of activities, the six-month period is not interrupted. This means that if you apply for Ulga na start and suspend your business, your entitlement to benefits will continue during the period when the business is not actually being carried on.

How to start using Start Assistance

To take advantage of the Ulga na start benefit, you must notify ZUS. There is no need to submit a separate application for eligibility for Start-Up Assistance. However, it is necessary to report health insurance and, using special codes, indicate that only ubezpieczenia zdrowotnego (health insurance) is issued.

To do this, you must submit the appropriate application within 7 days from the start of the enterprise. The application can be submitted to the local ZUS office at the place of business of the entrepreneur or, if such a place cannot be determined, at the place of residence. To submit your application, you can also use the special Płatnik program provided by ZUS, or the ePłatnik application if you have access to the ZUS digital PUE system.

It is important to note that health insurance coverage will begin from the date your application is accepted.

Kod tytułu ubezpieczenia

When filling out an application for health insurance, it is important to pay attention to point 01 in section V - kod tytułu ubezpieczenia. It is this code that indicates that we are talking about Ulga na start. These are six digits, the first four of which are the same in all cases of Start Assistance (0540). The fifth and sixth digits depend on the circumstances related to pension and other types of security.

The fifth digit takes the value:

• 0 if the entrepreneur does not have the right to an old-age or disability pension.
• 1 if the entrepreneur has the right to an old-age pension.
• 2 if the entrepreneur has the right to a disability pension.

The sixth digit determines the presence of a disability:

• 0 if there is no disability.
• 1 if there is a mild degree of disability.
• 2 if there is a moderate degree of disability.
• 3 if there is a severe form of disability.

For example, the insurance title code in the absence of old-age and disability pensions will look like this: 0540 00.

Where and how to apply

To receive the benefit, you must inform ZUS about it and provide the relevant documents. The application is submitted to the local ZUS office at the place of business of the entrepreneur or, if such a place cannot be determined, at the place of his residence.

You can report the benefit in person in the office if the number of employees in the company does not exceed 5 people. If you have more employees, you can use the special Płatnik program provided by ZUS. It is also possible to submit an application via the ePłatnik application if you have access to the PUE ZUS digital system.

Health insurance coverage will begin from the moment your application is accepted.

Declaration and termination of Ulga na start

To benefit from Start-up assistance, you must pay the health insurance premium and submit a declaration form ZUS DRA. Entrepreneurs without employees are required to submit a declaration only at the end of the Start-up Assistance period, which occurs 6 months from the date of its start.

You can also submit an application for refusal of Ulga na start to ZUS at any time before the end of the six-month period. First of all, to do this, you must fill out and submit the appropriate ZUS ZWUA form.

Early withdrawal from Start-Up Assistance is possible at any time before the end of the six-month period. You must complete and submit the ZUS ZWUA form.

Use start-up assistance and preferential contributions for new entrepreneurs in Poland to receive financial support and tax benefits when starting their own business.

Comfortable start-up conditions and preferential fees for new entrepreneurs in Poland

In the first years of its existence, your own business can become a real test for entrepreneurs. But in Poland, the state offers special benefits and financial support for those who are just starting their entrepreneurial journey. I would like to talk about one of these benefits in more detail - this is “Ulga for start-up and preferential contributions for new entrepreneurs in Poland.”

The Polish government has developed a program that offers flexible start-up conditions for new entrepreneurs. It provides for special benefits and tax preferences that may apply during the first two years of the enterprise’s operation.

Conditions and duration of the benefit

This benefit applies for two years and can be issued under certain conditions. The program also provides for the possibility of extending the grace period to 6, 24 or even 30 months for those who have already received Ulga to start. In addition, it should be noted that the benefit applies only to the entrepreneur himself, but not to his employees, if any.

Who can count on “Ulga for start and reduced fees”?

Entrepreneurs who meet the following conditions are entitled to receive this benefit:

1. Are not engaged in economic activity or have not been engaged in business activities for the previous 60 months other business activities.
2. Do not engage in commercial activities with a person who was previously the applicant's employer.

Also, when applying for benefits, it is necessary to take into account a list of additional restrictions, including such types of activities as creative and artistic activities, management of a state or non-state school, entrepreneurial activity in the field of taxation and others.

What contributions will you have to pay during the benefit period?

During the grace period, the entrepreneur will pay reduced contributions. It is important to note that this preferential system does not affect health insurance, and premiums for it remain unchanged.

Contributions are calculated as a percentage of the base value, which is 60% of the projected average salary for the current year. For example, for 2024 the predicted average salary is PLN 7,824. Accordingly, the calculation base for this year will be PLN 4,694. If an entrepreneur is entitled to a two-year benefit, then the base will be 30% of the minimum wage established for the current year.

When does the benefit begin?

An entrepreneur has the right to use the benefit immediately after registering his business or during registration events. It is also possible to apply for benefits at the end of another program, such as Ulga Head Start, if eligible.

The benefit begins to apply on the first day of the month following the submission of the application, or on the first day of the current month, if the application was submitted on the first day. Detailed information about the application process and the start of the benefit can be found in the above programs.

How to apply for “Ulga start and reduced fees”?

Submitting documents and applications is similar to the process of applying for “Ulga to Start”. The application must be submitted on a special form, which can be obtained from a government agency or downloaded from the official website. The main difference is the use of special insurance codes:

• 05 70 xx - if you have a pension or disability
• 05 72 2x - if you have disability

It is important to enter the correct code for your situation. Documents can be submitted in person or through an electronic system, as indicated in the instructions for the application.

When and how does the 24 month benefit end?

The grace period under the “Ulga for Start and Preferential Contributions” program ends either after two years or upon the entrepreneur’s application for early termination. If you plan to continue your business activity after the end of the grace period, you should follow these steps:

1. Within 7 days after the end of the grace period, submit the ZUS ZWUA form to cancel the reduced contributions . Enter the insurance code you used when registering your business.
2. At the same time, apply for standard contributions by submitting the ZUS ZUA form and indicating the appropriate title code 05 10 xx or 05 12 2x if you have a qualified disability pension entitlement.
3. A ZUS DRA declaration must then be submitted, indicating the appropriate basis for calculating contributions.

Completing these steps will allow you to continue your business activities without interruption and comply with all necessary state requirements. Be sure to do this within the established time frame to avoid penalties and misunderstandings.

💡 Useful tips:

• Make the decision to receive the “Ulga to start and preferential contributions” immediately after registering your business in order to immediately start using the benefits.
• Pay attention to the duration and conditions of the grace period in order to optimally plan your activities.
• Prepare all necessary documents in advance to avoid delays in applying for benefits.
• Seek advice from specialists or entrepreneurs who have already used this program to clarify the details and avoid mistakes.
• Follow changes in legislation and programs to stay up to date with all the innovations and opportunities for your business.

Using the "Ulga for start-up and preferential contributions" for new entrepreneurs in Poland can become an important support and incentive for the successful development of your business . Don't miss the opportunity to take advantage of these benefits and create comfortable conditions for your start!

📌 Case study:

Natalia decided to launch her own agency for organizing holidays in Poland. Thanks to the “Ulga Start and Reduced Contributions” program, she was able to save on initial investments and quickly grow her business. Preferential contributions helped it reduce costs in the first years of operation, and the grace period allowed it to focus on attracting customers and strengthening its position in the market. Now Natalia’s agency is one of the leaders in its field and continues to develop successfully.

We reviewed the main aspects of the Ulga start program and preferential contributions for new entrepreneurs in Poland". This benefit provides comfortable conditions for starting and special tax preferences that allow entrepreneurs to reduce costs in the first years of activity. If you are planning to start your own business in Poland, do not miss the opportunity to take advantage of this program and create a solid foundation for your future success!

You have decided to start your own business in Poland? This is a great idea! However, the prospect of starting and running a business can be a daunting task, requiring financial investment and long-term strategy. But don't worry, you have the opportunity to take advantage of preferential conditions and tax breaks that new entrepreneurs in Poland are entitled to.

Start-up benefits for new entrepreneurs

The first benefit we'll talk about is the opportunity to receive financial support at the initial stage of developing your business. In Poland, there are various programs offering grants and loans to new entrepreneurs. These financial opportunities will help you cover the basic costs of equipment, renting premises, purchasing inventory and organizing production.

However, it is important to note that eligibility for financial support may vary depending on the program and your business plan. Some programs require the mandatory submission of a business plan, a description of goals and a forecast of financial performance. Therefore, be prepared to thoroughly prepare and provide information about your business.

Preferential contributions for entrepreneurs

The second benefit that you should pay attention to is reduced social insurance contributions (ZUS) for new entrepreneurs. In Poland, you can enjoy benefits for up to 2 years from the date of registration of your business. This will reduce your social security costs and keep most of your funds for business development.

However, remember that the length of time you can use your concessional contributions, as well as their amount, may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of business you plan to launch. As with financial assistance, be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements and nuances of the reduced contribution program to properly utilize this opportunity.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

Starting your own business is a complex and demanding process, so it's important to be prepared and well-informed. Here are some useful tips to help you make the most of start-up benefits and reduced contributions in Poland:

1. Study the legislation: Get to know the basic rules and requirements that govern benefits and tax deductions for entrepreneurs. This will help you avoid mistakes and make the most of the available opportunities.

2. Consult the Experts: Consult an accountant or business lawyer for professional advice and guidance according to your specific case.

3. Prepare a complete package of documents: Carefully study the program requirements and prepare all the necessary documents in advance. This will help avoid delays and missed opportunities.

4. Contact your local ZUS offices: Visit your local ZUS office for more information and consultation on preferential contributions.

5. Plan for the long term: Keep in mind that preferential terms may only be available for a certain period of time, so it is important develop a long-term strategy for the development of your business.

Summary

Start-up benefits and reduced fees for new entrepreneurs in Poland are excellent opportunities to stimulate business development . Despite all the procedural formalities, it is the financial support and economic benefits that are worth considering when starting your business.

However, remember that these benefits are not absolute, and in order to make the most of them, you need to be an informed, well-prepared entrepreneur. Follow the recommendations, turn to professionals and plan your future with confidence!

"Starting your own business is an adventure where you have to be on top of your game. However, the opportunity to take advantage of start-up benefits and preferential contributions makes this path more attractive for young entrepreneurs."

Helena Novak, economist and entrepreneur

Also, don't forget that entrepreneurship is a creative process, so don't be afraid go beyond the ordinary and experiment! Good luck in your business!

Frequently asked questions on the topic Ulga for start-up and preferential fees for new entrepreneurs in Poland

Thank you for your attention and ability to make the right choice!

Now that you are familiar with the start-up incentives and reduced fees for new entrepreneurs in Poland, you have valuable information in your hands that will help you successfully launch your business. Now you know how to get financial support and tax benefits to take your first steps into the world of entrepreneurship without any problems.

But remember that knowledge without action is just irreplaceable information on paper. Now that you have become a professional in this field, it is time to turn your ideas and dreams into reality. After all, only through actions can you achieve success and realize your potential.

We believe in you and wish you good luck in all your endeavors! Be brave, resourceful and self-sufficient - and the whole world will be at your feet.

💪🌟🚀