A record number of individuals are receiving basic income support in old age in Germany, according to newly released data from the Federal Statistical Office. As of March 2025, 742,410 people above the statutory retirement age were receiving the support, marking an increase from 738,840 in 2024. This trend of increasing reliance on basic income support has been observed over several years.
The figures emerged following a written inquiry by Sarah Vollath, a Member of the Bundestag and spokesperson for pension and old age security policy for the Left Party. The data highlights a significant gender disparity; women comprise approximately 57 percent of those receiving basic income support, with over 420,000 women benefiting from the program.
Vollath described the escalating figures as a “clear warning signal” stating that the insufficiency of pensions to provide a dignified life in old age remains a concerning issue for a nation of Germany’s economic standing. The Left Party is advocating for a strengthening of the state pension system and an increase in the pension level to 53 percent.
The government reports that it lacks information regarding the number of individuals eligible for basic income support who do not claim it. Previous estimates suggest that around 70 percent of those entitled to the support have historically not applied.
Criticism has been directed at the Labour and Social Affairs Ministry for its perceived inaction on the issue of old-age poverty. Vollath accused the ministry of “turning a blind eye to reality” and shifting responsibility to pension insurance providers, social welfare agencies (local districts and independent cities) and welfare associations. She reported that the ministry was unable to provide any specific measures the government itself has taken to assist pensioners, characterizing it as a “serious indictment”.