Basic pension supplement (Grundrente)

The Grundrente (basic pension) is a supplement to the statutory pension in Germany for low earners who, despite many years of work, would only receive a small pension.

Who gets the basic pension?

• At least 33 years of qualifying periods (compulsory contributions, raising children, caring)
• Average income was between 30% and 80% of the average income
• Income test: monthly income below €1,375 (single people) or €2,145 (couples) for the full supplement
• No application needed – checked and calculated automatically

How high is the supplement?

• A maximum of approx. €420 per month (with 35+ years and low income)
• On average, eligible people receive approx. €75–85 per month
• Full supplement from 35 years, proportional from 33 years

Important details:

• Allowance for housing benefit: people entitled to the basic pension get a €100 or €223 allowance
• Retroactive payment: the pension insurance reviews all existing pensions – back payments are possible
• Financing: from tax revenue, not contributions

Who typically benefits?

• Women in western Germany (part-time work due to raising children)
• Workers in low-wage sectors (cleaning, care, catering)
• People in eastern Germany (historically lower salaries)