Background: Population aging contributes to the shrinking of the labor supply. A characteristic feature of the Polish pension system, rarely observed internationally, is the growing number of individuals receiving a pension despite a very short period of social security contributions. This results in an increase in the number of people receiving low pension benefits and an elevated risk of poverty among retirees. One way to mitigate this phenomenon is to extend economic activity, which, however, requires adapting working conditions to the capabilities of older employees. In this context, work ability is of key importance. The aim of this study was to assess the work ability of economically active individuals at risk of pension poverty, with particular emphasis on their capacity to continue working. Material and Methods: Work ability was measured using the Work Ability Index (WAI). The data come from a nationwide computer-assisted personal interviewing survey conducted among pre-retirement age individuals at risk of pension poverty. The analysis was limited to economically active respondents (N = 704). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, one- and two-way analysis of variance, t-test, and χ² test. Results: The research shows that the average WAI score among people at risk of pension poverty is 33.6 pts. For half of the respondents, this score does not exceed 35 pts. This indicates that this group’s work ability is moderate. Just under 1 in 3 people report a good work ability, while virtually no one reports an excellent one. Work ability is significantly linked to the type of the workload, the propensity to continue working and the possibility of achieving the required contribution period. The lowest WAI scores are observed among blue-collar workers who do not intend to work beyond retirement age Conclusions: The limited work ability of people at risk of pension poverty may constitute a significant barrier to both continuing economic activity and achieving the required contribution period, particularly for those furthest from meeting this condition. Therefore, measures relating to age management are of significant importance, especially those aimed at improving workplace ergonomics and supporting mental health. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2026;77(5)