Basic Income Support for the Elderly and Those with Reduced Earning Capacity

Individuals who have reached the applicable age limit or have turned 18 may apply for basic income support in old age and in the event of reduced earning capacity.and are permanently and fully unable to work. Additional requirements include having one’s habitual residence in the Federal Republic of Germany and being in financial need. This entitlement also applies to individuals employed in a workshop for people with disabilities.

Basic income support must be granted, upon application, to anyone who cannotby their own means—primarily from their incomeand assets. It is therefore means-tested.

The cost of living includes, in particular, food, housing, clothing, personal hygiene, household goods, heating, and personal needs of daily life. The standard rates provide a lump-sum coverage for all necessary living expenses for those living outside of institutions. Any exceptions are defined.

Certain groups of people are granted additional benefits.

The basic income support program is intended to prevent poverty among the elderly and improve the situation of people with severe and profound disabilities. There is no recourse for child support or parental support from children or parents with an annual income of less than 100,000 euros.

Age limit

Individuals born before January 1, 1947, reach the retirement age when they turn 65. For individuals born after December 31, 1946, the retirement age is raised as follows: