A new study from the Ifo Institute reveals a significant level of uncertainty among Germany’s self-employed and micro-entrepreneurs regarding their retirement provision. Just 46 percent of those surveyed assess their current retirement savings as sufficient to maintain their current standard of living in retirement.
Approximately one-third (32 percent) believe their provision is inadequate, while a further 22 percent remain unsure. Ifo expert Katrin Demmelhuber emphasizes the findings highlight the importance of a targeted retirement strategy for the self-employed, despite many demonstrating proactive and independent planning.
The study demonstrates a widespread approach to retirement planning among this demographic. An overwhelming 97 percent of respondents have at least one form of retirement provision, with over three-quarters (78 percent) utilizing multiple models.
Capital-based investments like investment funds, securities and real estate are commonly employed, alongside insurance-based products such as private pension and disability insurance. Moreover, nearly half of the self-employed (49 percent) retain claims from the statutory pension scheme due to prior mandatory contributions.
The data also suggests a correlation between the diversity of retirement options and perceived financial security. “Self-employed individuals who combine several forms of provision are more likely to feel adequately secured” explains Demmelhuber.
The survey, conducted in June 2025, encompassed nearly 900 solo self-employed individuals and micro-entrepreneurs (with fewer than nine employees).