StaatsNavigator
Back to search
Social benefits

Pension Application

Application for a statutory pension upon reaching the standard retirement age or in the event of reduced earning capacity.

Processing: approx. 2 months
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 95.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Check your pension information

    Starting at age 55, annually from the DRV.

  2. 2

    Submit an application

    3–6 months before retirement.

  3. 3

    Review the decision

    Take pension adjustments and tax brackets into account.

Required documents

  • Identification cardMandatory
  • Social Security numberMandatory
  • Birth certificateMandatoryOften forgotten

Responsible authority

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

Fees

Kostenlos

Processing time

approx. 2 months

Official: max. approx. 3 months

Online application

Apply online →
Application for Old-Age Pension (R0100)

Common mistakes

  • • Incomplete insurance history
  • • Pension information not taken into account

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Not enough waiting time
  • • Missing proof of contributions while living abroad

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Persons insured under the German Pension Insurance Scheme who have made contributions for a sufficient period of time.

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. 95.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Incomplete insurance history
  • •Pension information not taken into account

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Not enough waiting time
  • •Missing proof of contributions while living abroad

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

Old-age pension for long-term insured individuals

After 45 years of contributions, with no reductions

Questions & Answers

When should I apply for retirement benefits?▼

Ideally, 3 months before the desired retirement date.

Freshness & source

Maintenance
Continuously reviewed & updated
Source
Deutsche Rentenversicherung
Data quality
100 %

Latest content changes

  • Rentenantrag R0100

Read more

Handle Pension Application online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application