A growing number of retirees in Germany are increasingly reliant on basic social security benefits, according to recent data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). Figures indicate that 742,410 pensioners were receiving the supplementary social assistance program, “Grundsicherung im Alter” as of March of this year. This represents the highest number ever recorded.
The figure represents a notable increase compared to March 2024, when 719,330 individuals were receiving the benefit; an increase of 23,080 recipients, or 3.2 percent. Over the past four years, the trend has been even more pronounced. In March 2021, the number stood at 569,865, compared to the current figure of 742,410, a rise of 172,545 individuals, or a 30.3 percent increase.
The rising dependence on social assistance among retirees has drawn attention from political figures. Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the BSW party, stated that the increasing reliance on social welfare among pensioners is a serious issue facing the country.