Basic security in old age: How to apply for social benefits

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Find out whether you are entitled to basic security in old age and how you can apply for it. You can find all important information on this topic here!

Erfahren Sie, ob Sie Anspruch auf Grundsicherung im Alter haben und wie Sie diese beantragen können. Alle wichtigen Informationen zu diesem Thema finden Sie hier!
Find out whether you are entitled to basic security in old age and how you can apply for it. You can find all important information on this topic here!

Basic security in old age: How to apply for social benefits

More and more pensioners are receiving a pension that is not enough to cover their living expenses. According to the Federal Statistical Office, over a million pensioners receive basic security in old age. Who is entitled to this support? Anyone who receives a pension, is in need and lives in Germany can apply for basic security. This also applies to people with total incapacity who are entitled to benefits due to a disability.

The needs test for basic security in old age is based on different levels that are based on living circumstances. These include, among others, people living alone, single parents, couples and nursing home residents. The amount of financial support depends on various factors such as reasonable costs for housing, heating, additional costs and any additional needs.

If the income is below the needs, the basic security will cover the difference. There are also asset limits and maintenance obligations for children or other relatives to consider. Pensioners who would like to apply for basic security should know how their income and assets are taken into account.

Basic security in old age covers various costs, including necessary living expenses, accommodation costs, health and nursing care insurance, additional health needs as well as one-off and other additional needs costs. When applying, pensioners must state their income from work, pension and, if applicable, child benefit. There are certain allowances and regulations for income and assets that must be observed.

Pensioners with a certain amount of savings can also receive basic security. There are certain exceptions for assets that are not taken into account, but assets in excess of the protected assets must first be used up. It is advisable to submit an application for basic security if your monthly income is below a certain amount.

The application for basic security in old age must be submitted to the social welfare agency or the pension insurance company. Basic security begins from the time the application is submitted and is granted for twelve months. It is important to renew the application in a timely manner to receive continued support.