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Pension

Apply for a disability pension

A disability pension for insured persons who, due to health reasons, are no longer able to work or can only work to a limited extent.

Processing: approx. 2 months
Success rate: 52.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the German Pension Insurance

    Including medical certificates and discharge summaries from rehabilitation.

  2. 2

    Assessment by the DRV Medical Service

    If necessary, an assessment at the Pension Insurance Center.

  3. 3

    Received a pension notice

    If approved, retroactive to the date of application.

Required documents

  • Medical certificates and medical reportsMandatory

    Medical documentation regarding reduced earning capacity.

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

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Application submitted too late (pension payments will begin no earlier than the date the application was submitted)
  • • Proof of waiting period is incomplete (missing pension insurance periods)

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Medical report does not confirm reduced earning capacity
  • • The 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 are capable of working less than 6 hours a day (full work capacity) or 3–6 hours a day (partial work capacity).

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. 52.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application submitted too late (pension payments will begin no earlier than the date the application was submitted)
  • •Proof of waiting period is incomplete (missing pension insurance periods)

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Medical report does not confirm reduced earning capacity
  • •The 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.

Read more

Handle Apply for a disability pension online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application