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Pension

Apply for a survivor's pension

Widow's, widower's, or survivor's pension following the death of the insured person under the German Pension Insurance scheme.

Processing: approx. 3 weeks
Success rate: 88.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the DRV

    If possible, within 3 months of the death.

  2. 2

    Submit a death certificate and marriage documents

    Marriage certificate, death certificate, and, if applicable, divorce decrees.

  3. 3

    Received a pension notice

    Widow's/widower's pension is based on personal income.

Required documents

  • Death certificate of the insured personMandatory

    Official death certificate.

  • Marriage certificateMandatory

    Proof of marriage.

Responsible authority

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

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 3 weeks

Official: max. approx. 1 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Application not filed within 3 months (retroactive effect limited to 3 months)
  • • Income not taken into account (pension may be reduced)

Common reasons for rejection

  • • The waiting period for the deceased has not been met (5 years)
  • • Marriage lasted less than 1 year (restrictions)

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Spouses, registered domestic partners, and children of deceased pension insurance beneficiaries.

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 weeks

Success rate

approx. 88.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application not filed within 3 months (retroactive effect limited to 3 months)
  • •Income not taken into account (pension may be reduced)

Common reasons for rejection

  • •The waiting period for the deceased has not been met (5 years)
  • •Marriage lasted less than 1 year (restrictions)

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 survivor's pension online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application