[HIGHLIGHTS] Many pensioners are entitled to more pension points - but these are only available upon application

Parents in Germany can receive pension points for non-contributory periods. An application to the pension insurance company is necessary for this.

One year of child-rearing time brings almost one pay point, which in 2024 means exactly 39.32 euros more in pension per month. Only one person can have their parenting periods counted towards their pension.. Anyone who is unable to work due to raising children or works less than before does not have to forego pension points.. Adoptive, step or foster parents can also apply. The same applies to grandparents or relatives, but only if the child lives there permanently as a foster child.. The German Pension Insurance Federation (DRV) answers questions on the topic on the free service telephone on 0800 10 00 48 00. For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.