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Pension

Apply for a disability pension

Pension for insured individuals who, due to health reasons, can only work on a limited basis or are no longer able to work at all.

Processing: approx. 3 months
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 55.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Compile medical records

    Medical records from all treating physicians over the past few years.

  2. 2

    Submit an application to the German Pension Insurance

    Online, in person, or through an insurance advisor.

  3. 3

    Social and Medical Assessment

    Examination by a pension insurance examiner.

  4. 4

    Decision – if denied, consider filing an appeal

    Many applications are not approved until the appeal or litigation process.

Required documents

  • Medical reportsMandatory
  • Insurance HistoryMandatoryOften forgotten

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 3 months

Official: max. approx. 3 months

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • • Medical records are incomplete
  • • Missed the appointment with the appraiser

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Estimated remaining capacity over 6 hours per day
  • • Insurance requirements (waiting period/contribution periods) not met
  • • "Rehabilitation Before Retirement" Has Not Yet Been Fully Utilized

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Insured individuals who have completed at least a 5-year waiting period and made mandatory contributions for at least 3 of the last 5 years, and whose daily work capacity is less than 6 or 3 hours, respectively.

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. 3 months

Success rate

approx. 55.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Medical records are incomplete
  • •Missed the appointment with the appraiser

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Estimated remaining capacity over 6 hours per day
  • •Insurance requirements (waiting period/contribution periods) not met
  • •"Rehabilitation Before Retirement" Has Not Yet Been Fully Utilized

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

Rehabilitation Application

Things to check before applying for a pension

Basic Income Support for the Elderly

In cases of permanent total disability without an adequate pension

Questions & Answers

What is the success rate for initial applications?▼

Initial applications are often denied; a significant number are only approved after an appeal or a lawsuit filed in social court.

Read more

Handle Apply for a disability pension online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application