Apply for a standard old-age pension
Application to the German Pension Insurance Fund for payment of the standard old-age pension upon reaching the statutory retirement age.
How to proceed
- 1
Make sure to clarify your pension account in a timely manner
Ideally, a few years before your planned retirement.
- 2
Submit an application
About 3 months before your desired retirement date, either online or at the Information and Counseling Center.
- 3
Pension award notice and ongoing payments
Monthly payment of the standard old-age pension upon reaching the retirement age.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted too late, resulting in a delay in the first payment
- • Gaps in insurance coverage prior to retirement have not been resolved
Common reasons for rejection
- • The general 5-year waiting period has not been met
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Insured persons who have completed the standard 5-year waiting period and have reached the standard retirement age.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months
Success rate
approx. 97.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted too late, resulting in a delay in the first payment
- •Gaps in insurance coverage prior to retirement have not been resolved
Common reasons for rejection
- •The general 5-year waiting period has not been met
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Related services
Read more
Handle Apply for a standard old-age pension online
Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.
Start online application