Question 1

By what percentage do German pensions rise in 2026?

Accepted Answer

On 1 July 2026 statutory pensions rose by 4.24%. The current pension value — the value of one earnings point — increased from €40.79 to €42.52. The rise applies uniformly across Germany to old-age, disability and survivors' pensions. Someone receiving €1,500 gross now gets around €1,563.62 gross.

Question 2

How big will the 2027 pension increase be?

Accepted Answer

That has not been decided yet. In its spring 2026 financial estimate the German pension insurance expects an adjustment of around 4.4% on 1 July 2027. The value will only be set in spring 2027, once the wage data for 2026 are available. For 2028 a much smaller rise is currently expected (around 2.3%). You can adjust the forecast yourself in the calculator.

Question 3

Why does my net pension rise by less than 4.24%?

Accepted Answer

Health and long-term care insurance are deducted from the gross increase — usually 12.35% in total (8.75% health at the average additional rate plus 3.6% care), 12.95% for childless people. If you pay tax, the full marginal rate also applies to the increase, because your pension allowance is fixed. That is why only about €40 to €56 net remains from a €63.62 gross rise, depending on the case.

Question 4

Will the pension increase make me liable to tax?

Accepted Answer

It can happen. What matters is whether your taxable income exceeds the basic allowance of €12,348 (2026). Because the pension allowance is fixed as a euro amount in the year after your pension starts, every later increase is fully taxable. With a gross pension of about €1,500 and a 2018 start, 2026 income is just above the basic allowance. The calculator shows whether you are affected.

Question 5

When is the pension increase paid out?

Accepted Answer

The increase applies from the July pension month. Those who retired before April 2004 receive their pension in advance at the start of the month — i.e. end of June with the July payment. Those who retired later receive it at the end of the month, i.e. end of July. The new amount is stated in the pension adjustment notice sent in summer.

Question 6

Do survivors' and disability pensions rise too?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all pensions from the statutory pension insurance rise by the same percentage. For survivors' pensions the allowance for income offsetting also rises (26.4 × pension value: from €1,076.86 to €1,122.53). If you have income of your own, less is offset — so the survivor's pension can rise by more than 4.24%.

Question 7

How is the pension increase calculated?

Accepted Answer

The basis is the previous year's wage growth (§ 68 SGB VI). In addition, the 'holding line' applies: the pre-tax pension level may not fall below 48% — extended by the 2025 pension package up to the 2031 adjustment. The federal government sets the new pension value by ordinance, and the Bundesrat must approve. Your pension equals your earnings points × pension value × access and pension-type factor.

Question 8

Do I need to apply for the increase?

Accepted Answer

No. The pension adjustment happens automatically. Do check the adjustment notice, though: it shows the new health and care insurance amounts. If the increase pushes you above the basic allowance for the first time, plan for a tax return — the pension data are reported to the tax office automatically anyway.

Guide: Pension Increase Calculator

German Pension Increase 2026 and 2027: What Is Left of the Rise After Deductions

Does the Pension Increase Make You Liable to Tax? How to Check

German Pension Increase 2027: Forecast, Timetable and What It Brings Net

Survivor's Pension After the Increase: Why the Rise Is Often Bigger

Understanding the Pension Adjustment Notice: The Key Figures Explained

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