Pension in Münster

Check your annual pension information to get an overview of your expected pension.

The German Pension Insurance offers free consultations. Use this before applying.

Pension must be applied for – it is not paid automatically. Submit application about 3 months before desired pension start.

As a pensioner, you are insured in the pensioner health insurance (KVdR) if you meet the pre-insurance period.

Inform your employer in good time about your retirement date.

Pensions are partially taxable. Check if you need to file a tax return.

Child-raising periods increase your statutory pension. For children born before 1992, up to 2.5 years are credited. For children born from 1992 onwards, 3 years per child are credited. The credit is only granted upon application to the German Pension Insurance.

If you care for relatives (e.g. parents or partner), care periods can increase your statutory pension. The requirement is that care is provided for at least 10 hours per week on at least two days and the person requiring care has a recognized care level.

Even with a mini-job, you accumulate pension entitlements. If you are not exempt from pension insurance, mini-job periods count fully towards your future pension. An exemption saves money in the short term but reduces your pension.

Periods with unemployment benefit I count towards your pension, as contributions continue to be paid. Periods with citizen's benefit (formerly ALG II) do not increase your pension, but may be relevant for waiting periods.

State pension alone is not enough for most people. Now is the right time to check private pension provision – before you retire. A free comparison shows you the best options.

The Rürup pension (basic pension) is particularly interesting for the self-employed and high earners. Contributions of up to €27,566 (2024) are tax-deductible – making it the most efficient retirement provision for high incomes.