In Polish: Wskaźnik referencyjny
This is the word you will see in bank documents.
Definition
A benchmark rate (reference rate) is a published interest rate from which the bank calculates the variable part of the loan's interest. In Polish mortgages it is WIBOR, and in new agreements POLSTR. The variable interest rate is the sum of the benchmark and the bank's fixed margin.
What it means for you
The benchmark decides whether your instalment rises or falls, because the margin usually stays the same for the whole loan term. In your agreement you will find the name of the benchmark, the day it is read and how often the instalment is updated. Also check the clause on the fallback benchmark that applies if the current one stops being published.
Full entry in Polish, with a worked example and sources
Frequently asked questions
Which benchmark rate do Polish mortgages use?
Older and some current variable-rate loans use WIBOR 3M or 6M. New agreements are increasingly based on POLSTR, and from 1 January 2027 WIBOR may not be used in new agreements.
What happens if the benchmark in my agreement stops existing?
The bank will apply the fallback benchmark set out in the agreement. For WIBOR loans this matters after 2036, if the loan runs longer.
Related terms
Definitions are simplified and reflect Polish law and bank practice as of October 2026. Where every word matters, the Act and your loan agreement decide. Figures in examples are indicative and are not a bank offer. The Polish version of each entry has worked examples and sources.
Other terms in “Interest rates and benchmarks”