The German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) has released its 2024 Grundrente (basic pension) balance, revealing a significant rise in payouts and recipient numbers. Data indicates a growing trend of senior citizens receiving the Grundrente supplement, accompanied by escalating supplement amounts and associated expenditures.
Currently, 1.4 million seniors are benefiting from the Grundrente supplement, representing a substantial increase compared to 2023. However, a notable distinction exists: 1.35 million individuals technically qualify for the Grundrente based on low-wage work history, but are ineligible for the supplement due to existing income levels, either their own or those of their partners.
In the past year, 377,067 men received the Grundrente, with an average monthly supplement of €78.98, boosting their net pension to €978.13. This represents an increase from the €76.43 average supplement received in 2023. The number of women receiving the Grundrente reached 1,022,980, accompanied by an average supplement of €104.24, up from €97.40 in 2023. This resulted in an average gross pension of €994.39 for female recipients.
Individuals receiving disability pensions receive the largest Grundrente supplements. For men in this category, the average supplement is €88.15, while women receive €109.53. Widowers and widows receive comparatively smaller supplements, averaging €56.34 for men and €55.54 for women.
Overall, the pension fund’s expenditure on the Grundrente increased by €237 million last year, reaching a total of €1.64 billion – a 17% rise. The trend underscores the rising financial commitment associated with this social benefit program.
