Basic income support
in old age and in the event of reduced earning capacity
in old age and in the event of reduced earning capacity
Basic income support in old age and in the event of reduced earning capacity is a state benefit to secure the livelihood of people with a low pension or permanent full reduction in earning capacity. It is intended to enable people to live in dignity if their own income, pension or assets are insufficient.
The basic income support includes the standard requirement, the costs for accommodation and heating as well as any additional requirements. The aim is to guarantee those affected a life of social participation and security - without recourse to the income of their children, provided they have an annual income of less than €100,000.
People are entitled to basic income support
who have reached the age of 65 (or the standard retirement age)
or are permanently fully incapacitated for work (determined by the pension provider)
AND
whose income and assets are not sufficient to secure their livelihood
and do not receive benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act or living allowance
Please note: It is not possible to claim basic income support and living allowance at the same time.
The amount of basic income support is made up of
Standard requirement: e.g. € 563 for single persons (as at: 2024)
Accommodation and heating costs: Reasonable rent including ancillary costs and actual heating costs.
Additional requirements: e.g. an additional 17% for a walking disability.
Health and long-term care insurance contributions, if not covered elsewhere
However, your income is deducted from this requirement - e.g. pensions, annuities, earned income, alimony, interest, rental income or income from abroad.
Basic income support in old age or in the event of reduced earning capacity used to be part of social assistance. It is aimed at people who have retired or are permanently unable to work. This distinguishes it from citizens' allowance, which you only receive if you have not yet reached the age limit and are able to work. Unlike the pension, basic income support is a state social benefit that you receive regardless of whether you have paid into the pension insurance scheme.
If you have income in the form of pensions, salaries, etc., you are usually entitled to living allowance, which excludes basic income support. You can use our basic income support calculator to easily find out whether you receive basic income support or living allowance.
Don't worry about maintenance obligations: Since 2020, children have only been required to pay maintenance if their annual income exceeds €100,000.
Unlike citizens' allowance, the entire family is not taken into account. Therefore, children in the household may occasionally have to apply for citizens' allowance or (under the age of 15) assistance with living expenses themselves.
Incidentally, people who are temporarily incapacitated for work also receive assistance with living expenses from the social welfare office.
If you are permanently fully disabled or of retirement age and do not have sufficient income or assets: Do not hesitate to apply for basic income support. You are entitled to it.
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Here you find everything you need to know about basic income support in old age and in the event of reduced earning capacity.
