More than seven million pensioners in Germany have less than 1,250 euros net per month for living expenses. The basic pension was introduced in 2021 to subsidize low pensions.
Married couples are at a disadvantage when it comes to basic pensions. Social associations have been criticizing annual income tests for the basic pension. For those affected, it could not only lead to pension cuts, but also to growing uncertainty. The German Social Association (SoVD) also emphasizes that the income test can reduce the circle of those entitled to a pension.