{"id":599,"date":"2024-11-26T13:43:58","date_gmt":"2024-11-26T13:43:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/powercv.pl\/?p=599"},"modified":"2025-04-13T07:28:58","modified_gmt":"2025-04-13T07:28:58","slug":"najnizsza-krajowa-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/powercv.pl\/en\/praca\/najnizsza-krajowa-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the national minimum wage in 2025."},"content":{"rendered":"

How much will the national minimum wage be in 2025?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In 2025, the lowest national wage in Poland will be PLN 4,666 gross per month, which is the highest level in history. The minimum hourly rate will increase to PLN 30.50 gross. These changes are intended to improve the quality of life employees<\/a> with the lowest incomes and adjusting wages to the rising costs of living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage is the result of a decision by the Council of Ministers, which took into account current inflation forecasts. Inflation at the level of 5% in 2025 required taking action that would allow Poles to maintain the purchasing power of their salaries. This is a response to the needs of both the economy and society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Full-time employees will receive approximately PLN 3,510.92 net per month after deduction of contributions and taxes. This is a significant increase compared to 2024, when the minimum national wage was PLN 3,600 gross. Thanks to this change, many Poles will be able to plan their household budgets more stably.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The changes will also affect part-time workers. Even with reduced working hours, their gross and net wages will increase, making the labor market more attractive to workers with different employment models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The minimum hourly rate in 2025, amounting to PLN 30.50 gross, is a record in the history of the Polish labor market. This change will have a particularly beneficial effect on people employed under civil law contracts, where previous wages were often insufficient to cover basic living costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage will have a positive impact on consumption in the economy. Higher incomes mean higher spending on products and services, which will stimulate the development of enterprises. This is especially important in the context of the economic slowdown that was predicted for previous years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The decision to increase the minimum wage does not only concern salaries. It is also a change in the way work is perceived in Poland. Higher wages are to encourage employees to take up legal employment and attract young people to the labor market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The new gross amount of PLN 4,666 was calculated based on the increase in the prices of consumer goods and services and the forecasted GDP growth. The government also took into account data on the level of minimum wages in European Union countries to reduce the gap separating Poland from more developed economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The national minimum wage is an important element of social policy in Poland. Raising it is a step towards reducing income inequality, which is one of the main problems of the modern economy. Higher wages mean greater chances for a decent life for millions of Poles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The change in minimum wages in 2025 is not only a benefit for employees. Higher gross wages will also contribute to increased budget revenues from taxes and contributions, which will help finance important public projects such as education and healthcare.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"najni\u017csza<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

What law established the national minimum wage in 2025?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The lowest national wage in 2025 was established by the Regulation of the Council of Ministers published in the Journal of Laws. This decision was preceded by consultations with the Social Dialogue Council, which represents the interests of both employees and employers. The regulation took into account current economic and social forecasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Process<\/a> The legislation requires that the minimum wage be set annually. In 2025, the key factors determining the increase were the inflation rate, which was 5%, and the projected increase in the cost of living for households. The government had to take these data into account to ensure the economic stability of workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The minimum hourly rate of PLN 30.50 gross was determined based on the same assumptions. This is particularly important for people employed under civil law contracts, who have often earned less than the minimum monthly wage for full-time employment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unlike previous years, in 2025 it was decided to increase the minimum wage once, which will apply from January to December. This regulation eliminates the uncertainty resulting from possible changes in the middle of the year, as was the case in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The adoption of the regulations was preceded by an analysis of the socio-economic effects. The increase in the minimum national wage was aimed not only at improving the financial situation of employees, but also at reducing the phenomenon of poverty in Poland. Higher wages are to reduce the number of people at risk of social exclusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Council of Ministers also took into account the needs of employers. The new regulations were announced well in advance so that companies could plan their budgets for the next year. This was particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises, which may experience an increase in labor costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The decision to increase the minimum wage is part of the government's broader social policy. The aim is to create a more equitable pay system that responds to the needs of modern society and changing market conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Council of Ministers' regulation was also the result of social pressure and trade unions, which have been demanding greater support for employees with the lowest incomes for years. The increase in the minimum wage in 2025 is evidence of the growing importance of employees' voices in the public debate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of new minimum wage regulations is also a step towards increasing the transparency of the remuneration system in Poland. Clearly defined minimum amounts make it easier for employees to negotiate with employers and provide a greater sense of security on the labour market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The lowest national wage in 2025 is an element of Poland's economic development strategy. Higher wages are not only to improve the material situation of employees, but also to contribute to increased domestic demand and stabilization of the labor market in the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since when does the national minimum wage apply in 2025?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The minimum national wage of PLN 4,666 gross will come into effect on January 1, 2025. Unlike previous years, when increases were introduced in two stages, this time it was decided to make a one-time change valid for the entire year. This simplification is aimed at stabilizing the situation on the labor market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The decision to increase the minimum wage once was made based on a socio-economic analysis. This solution gives employees certainty about their salary for the whole year and allows employers to better plan their budgets. Such a change is especially important in difficult economic times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of new minimum wage rates from January 2025 is also a step towards increasing the attractiveness of the Polish labor market. Fixed minimum wage rules are to encourage both employees and entrepreneurs to develop their businesses in Poland, not abroad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The minimum national wage was set to take into account inflation forecast for the whole of 2025. This decision reduces the risk of a decline in the purchasing power of wages, which is crucial for the country's economic stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The new minimum wage applies to all sectors of the economy from January 2025, regardless of the type of employment. This means that employees in both the public and private sectors will benefit from the same minimum wage conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The date of entry into force of the new regulations was chosen in such a way as to ensure continuity of the remuneration system. Employees can expect increased payments as early as January, which allows for easier adjustment to the new economic conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The one-time increase in the minimum wage is also a change compared to 2024, when the increases were two-step. This method of regulating wages eliminates the need to adjust contracts and wage systems multiple times during the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Employers have been informed of the changes well in advance, which allows them to implement them more effectively. management<\/a> financial resources. The new minimum wage is also intended to encourage employers to improve working conditions and retain employees for longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of the minimum wage from January 2025 is a decision that is intended to ensure equal conditions for all employees in Poland. It is also a step towards improving Poland's image as a country that cares about workers' rights and social well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The national minimum wage, effective from January 2025, is also a challenge for public administration. It requires adjusting accounting systems and appropriate communication with employees and employers to ensure smooth implementation of the new regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Pisz<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The impact of the minimum national wage on ZUS and taxes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum national wage in 2025 means higher ZUS contributions and higher tax revenues. Employees will pay more pension, disability, sickness and health insurance contributions, which will contribute to the stabilization of the social insurance system in Poland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Higher ZUS contributions also mean greater security for employees in the future. Higher contributions to a retirement account can translate into better retirement benefits, which is important in the context of an aging society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PIT advances will also increase with the increase in the minimum wage. For employees, this means lower net wages compared to the gross increase, but at the same time higher revenues to the state budget from income taxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Higher tax revenues can be used to implement important public projects, such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. In this way, the increase in the minimum wage contributes not only to improving the situation of employees, but also to the development of the entire country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Employers will also feel the effects of the increase in the national minimum wage. Higher employment costs resulting from the need to pay higher ZUS contributions may prompt some companies to restructure or invest in process automation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of a higher minimum wage is also a challenge for small and medium-sized businesses. These companies will have to adjust their budgets to the new realities, which can be difficult, especially in industries with low margins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The tax system in Poland must adapt to the changed wage rates. The tax administration will have to ensure liquidity in settlements and effectively monitor revenues from taxes and contributions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Higher ZUS contributions and taxes may also increase social benefits, such as sickness and maternity benefits. This will give low-income workers more support in difficult life situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the long term, higher revenues from taxes and contributions can help reduce the budget deficit and improve the country's financial stability. This is important for maintaining Poland's credibility in the international arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the national minimum wage in 2025 is also an impulse to modernize the social insurance system. Thanks to the higher revenues, it will be possible to introduce new solutions that will better protect the interests of employees and employers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How has the national minimum wage changed since 2010?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Since 2010, the minimum wage in Poland has more than tripled. At that time, it was PLN 1,317 gross, which, compared to PLN 4,666 in 2025, reflects dynamic economic development and changes in the labor market. This is one of the fastest increases among European Union countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage is the result of a number of factors, including rising living costs, social pressures, and government policies aimed at reducing income inequality. Over the past decade, particular attention has been paid to protecting those on the lowest incomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the years 2010-2015, the national minimum wage grew relatively slowly. The increases averaged PLN 100-150 per year. Only after 2016, when the minimum wage exceeded PLN 2,000 gross, the pace of increases began to accelerate. In 2020, the minimum wage reached PLN 2,600 gross.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The largest increases in the minimum wage took place in the years 2020-2025. This resulted from the need to adjust wages to rising inflation and greater social expectations. The increase in the costs of energy, food and consumer services forced the government to take more decisive action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2023, the minimum national wage was PLN 3,490 gross, which was a significant jump compared to previous years. In 2024, the minimum wage increased to PLN 3,600, and in 2025 it reached a record PLN 4,666 gross. This shows how dynamically the situation on the labor market has changed in recent years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The change in the minimum national wage since 2010 is also a reflection of the growth in social awareness. Poles increasingly demand wages that are adequate to the work performed, which forces employers and the government to introduce more competitive wage rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A higher minimum wage not only means more income for workers, but also greater challenges for employers. The increase in wages requires companies to invest more in automation to reduce labor costs and increase efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the last 15 years, Poland has become one of the leaders in terms of increasing minimum wages in Central and Eastern Europe. This shows that government policy has been effective in raising the living standards of Poles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the rapid increase in the minimum wage has also raised concerns. Critics point to inflationary risks and pressure on small and medium-sized businesses, which may struggle to adapt to the new economic realities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since 2010, the national minimum wage has become a key tool of social policy in Poland. Its growth is evidence of the growing role of the state in shaping the labor market and the pursuit of a more equitable distribution of income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"najni\u017csza
Profile view of pretty middle-aged white collar worker using smartphone while having working meeting with young colleague at cozy small coffeehouse<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The lowest national wage in Poland and other EU countries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Poland is one of the leaders in increasing the minimum wage in the European Union. Since 2010, the lowest national wage has increased by over 250%, which is significantly higher than the rate of growth in many Western European countries. Despite this, Poland still remains below the EU average in terms of the nominal level of the minimum wage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2025, the minimum wage in Poland will be PLN 4,666 gross, which is approximately EUR 1,000. For comparison, in Germany, the minimum wage is approximately EUR 1,700 gross per month, and in France EUR 1,650. These differences result from the higher purchasing power in Western countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the pace of growth of the minimum wage in Poland allows for gradual reduction of differences between EU countries. In the perspective of the coming years, Poland may catch up with some countries of Southern Europe, such as Greece or Portugal, where minimum wages are at a similar level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the main challenges for Poland remains the purchasing power of the minimum wage. Despite the nominal increase in the minimum wage, high living costs, especially in large cities, mean that workers in Poland still have fewer opportunities to save than their counterparts in Western Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of a higher minimum wage in Poland is attracting the attention of foreign investors. Higher wages can make the Polish labor market more attractive to more qualified workers, which is important in the context of global competition for talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poland can be seen as an example of a country that effectively uses the minimum wage to reduce social inequality. In Eastern European countries such as Romania and Bulgaria, minimum wages still remain much lower, which shows how far Poland has come in recent years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When comparing Poland with EU countries, it is worth noting that the minimum wage depends not only on government decisions, but also on the structure of the economy and the level of labor productivity. Countries with more advanced economies can afford higher minimum wages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poland is one of the leaders in increasing labor productivity in the CEE region. This means that the rising minimum wage is partly the result of greater efficiency in production and services, which allows companies to raise wages without reducing competitiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The minimum wage policy in Poland is also being observed by other EU countries. The success in reducing income inequality may become an example for countries with similar socio-economic challenges, such as Hungary or the Czech Republic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite the challenges, Poland is on track to further increase the minimum wage in the coming years. The increase in minimum wages is crucial to improving the quality of life and reducing the migration of Poles to countries with higher wages. Here are the next two sections of the article:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Who will benefit from a higher national minimum wage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The higher minimum wage in 2025 will primarily benefit employees with the lowest incomes. Thanks to the increase, their net wages will increase, which will allow them to more easily cover living costs and improve the quality of everyday life. This is a key step in the fight against poverty in Poland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Employees employed under civil law contracts, such as contracts for services, will also benefit from the new regulations. The minimum hourly rate of PLN 30.50 gross means that their income will increase, which may increase their motivation to work and professional commitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage will also be beneficial for young workers entering the labor market. Higher salaries may encourage them to stay in Poland, instead of looking for better-paid jobs abroad. This may limit the phenomenon of labor emigration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The benefits will also be felt by people working in low-skilled industries such as gastronomy, trade<\/a> retail or manufacturing. Increases in wages can contribute to reduced employee turnover and greater employment stability in these sectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Women, who often work in low-paid jobs, also stand to gain from a minimum wage increase. Higher wages can help reduce the gender pay gap, a significant step towards gender equality in the labor market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Families with children will be able to better meet their financial needs thanks to the higher minimum wage. Additional funds will allow them to invest in children's education, health and daily expenses, which will contribute to improving the quality of life of the entire family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Employers who pay more than the minimum wage can also benefit. A higher minimum wage increases workers\u2019 purchasing power, which leads to more consumption and demand for products and services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The benefits of the minimum wage increase will also be felt by local communities. Increased incomes for residents can help local businesses grow, which in turn leads to more employment and economic growth at the regional level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage also benefits the social insurance system. Higher ZUS contributions mean higher revenues for the state budget, which can be used to improve public services such as healthcare or infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ultimately, a higher national minimum wage benefits society as a whole. Reducing income inequality and improving the financial situation of low-income workers contributes to greater social stability and economic security for the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"najni\u017csza
Profile view of pretty middle-aged white collar worker using smartphone while having working meeting with young colleague at cozy small coffeehouse<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Who stands to lose from a higher minimum wage?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While a higher national minimum wage brings many benefits, there are also groups that could feel the negative effects of this change. First and foremost, employers, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, could struggle with higher employment costs, which will affect their profits and ability to invest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Companies operating in low-margin industries, such as catering or cleaning services, may be forced to raise the prices of their products and services to compensate for the increase in labor costs. This could affect their competitiveness in the market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rising labor costs may prompt some employers to reduce their workforce. Companies may decide to reduce the number of full-time positions or replace workers with automation, which could lead to higher unemployment in the short term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consumers could also feel the effects of a higher national minimum through higher prices. If companies pass on labor cost increases to customers, everyday items like food, transportation, and services could become more expensive, affecting household budgets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For workers employed illegally, a higher minimum wage may be a hindrance. Employers may be more reluctant to hire illegally, which on the one hand reduces the scale of illegal employment, but on the other limits the availability of work for these people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Higher labor costs may affect the competitiveness of Polish companies on international markets. Companies exporting products and services may have difficulty maintaining competitive prices, which may limit their share in the global market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A minimum wage increase could also affect workplace relationships. Workers who previously earned slightly more than the minimum wage may demand pay increases to maintain the pay gap, putting employers in a difficult negotiating position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In some cases, a higher national minimum wage can lead to greater pressure on employee performance. Employers may expect greater productivity in exchange for higher wages, which can increase stress and workload on employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Small family businesses may have difficulty adjusting to new wage rates. Higher labor costs may lead to business closures, especially in situations where companies cannot raise prices due to competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the long term, a higher national minimum wage could also increase inflationary pressure. If wage increases translate into overall price increases, Poles\u2019 purchasing power could be limited, partially neutralizing the benefits of higher wages.Here are the next two sections:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How does the national minimum wage affect the economy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage has both positive and negative effects on the economy. Higher wages translate into greater purchasing power for workers, which stimulates consumption. Spending on goods and services increases, driving the development of local businesses and improving economic dynamics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Higher minimum wages help reduce income inequality in society. This in turn improves social stability, which has a positive impact on the investment climate in a country. Investors often prefer markets with stable social structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the challenges resulting from the higher national minimum wage is the rising costs of employment for employers. In the case of companies with low labor productivity, rising wages may force restructuring, reducing employment or even closing down the business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

High labor costs can also encourage companies to invest in automation and modern technologies. Although in the short term this leads to job cuts, in the long term it increases the efficiency of the economy and enables the creation of new, better-paid positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consumption stimulated by higher employee incomes is one of the key drivers of economic growth. Higher-income workers are more likely to spend money on services, which supports the development of sectors such as food service, retail and tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage also affects the public sector. Higher social security contributions and payroll taxes increase budget revenues that can be used to improve infrastructure, education, or healthcare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One potential threat is the risk of inflation. If the minimum wage increase translates into an overall increase in production costs, the prices of goods and services could rise, reducing consumer purchasing power. This is a challenge that requires careful monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of a higher national minimum wage may also affect the competitiveness of Polish companies on international markets. Companies exporting products must find a way to maintain competitive prices, which is not always easy given the rising costs of labor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage promotes the development of regions with a lower economic level. Higher wages may encourage residents to stay in rural regions, rather than migrate to large cities or abroad in search of better-paid work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the long term, the increase in the minimum wage may contribute to greater innovation in the Polish economy. Companies forced to optimize labor costs may invest in new technologies and improve the skills of their employees, which will increase their competitiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Future prospects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum national wage in 2025 is an important step, but also the beginning of long-term changes in the Polish economy and labor market. Forecasts indicate that in the coming years the minimum wage in Poland will continue to grow, which results from both inflation and the need to adapt to European standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One challenge will be to find a balance between wage growth and the competitiveness of the economy. To avoid negative effects on small and medium-sized enterprises, the government may consider introducing additional tax breaks or subsidies for companies employing low-skilled workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poland, as one of the leaders in increasing the minimum wage in Europe, can become an example for other countries with a similar level of economic development. The increase in minimum wages in Poland shows that dynamic changes are possible even in countries with lower purchasing power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the coming years, monitoring the effects of the changes will be a key element. The government should regularly analyze how the increase in the minimum wage affects the labor market, employment levels, the competitiveness of companies and the financial situation of employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in minimum wages may also affect Poles' decisions to emigrate. Higher wages in the country may retain skilled workers who previously chose better-paid offers abroad. This may help solve the problem of labor shortages in some sectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An important step in the future could also be the introduction of more flexible forms of minimum wage regulation, which would adjust it to regional differences in the cost of living. In this way, the minimum wage would better correspond to the real needs of employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The increase in the minimum wage is also an opportunity to invest in education and professional development of employees. Higher wages can encourage people with low qualifications to take courses and training, which in the long run will contribute to increased productivity in the economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In parallel with raising the minimum wage, the government should develop a policy of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. These companies are most exposed to the negative effects of higher wages, and their development is crucial to the health of the Polish economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a global perspective, the increase in the minimum wage in Poland is part of a broader trend of strengthening employee protection and reducing income inequality. Poland, as part of the European Union, has the opportunity to play an important role in shaping the future of social policy in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The national minimum wage in 2025 is a step towards a more equitable labor market. However, its effectiveness depends on appropriate economic and social policies that will balance the benefits and challenges associated with higher wages.<\/p>\n

<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The year 2025 brings significant changes in wages that will affect the lives of millions of Poles. The national minimum wage will increase and the minimum hourly rate will reach a record level.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":881,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"yasr_overall_rating":0,"yasr_post_is_review":"","yasr_auto_insert_disabled":"","yasr_review_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[29,53],"class_list":["post-599","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-praca","tag-porady-zawodowe","tag-wynagrodzenie"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t