Germany’s social security system provides financial support to people who do not have sufficient income to cover their basic needs. In 2026, the amount of this assistance and the eligibility requirements will have specific features. Learn more about basic old-age security in Germany, the amount of benefits, and the application process

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Germany’s social security system provides support for those who, for various reasons, have been unable to save enough for retirement. A government assistance program called “basic income support” (Grundsicherung) helps cover basic living expenses—from rent to health insurance.

Who exactly is eligible for this benefit, how much will be paid in 2026, and where to apply—we’ll cover all of this in the article below.

Are you planning to move to Germany or are you already in the country and want to understand your social rights?

The immigration lawyers at the Visit World portal will help you determine which benefits you are entitled to and assist you throughout the application process.

What is basic social security in Germany and who is eligible

Basic social security for old age and disability is a form of social assistance enshrined in Chapter 4 of SGB XII. It is funded not by insurance contributions but by tax revenues, so it is not formally part of the pension system.

Two categories of people are eligible:

1. People who have reached retirement age.
2. Individuals aged 18 and older with a permanent, total disability.

The German Pension Insurance (DRV) recommends that those whose total monthly income does not exceed approximately 1,101 euros consider this assistance. Important note: The recipient’s children or parents are generally not obligated to provide financial support. The only exception applies to relatives with an annual income exceeding 100,000 euros.

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Basic benefits amount in 2026: what the sum consists of

The payment is calculated individually and covers several categories of expenses:

• standard living allowance (Regelbedarf);
• housing and heating costs;
• health insurance premiums;
• care costs.

The standard living allowance for a single person in 2026 is 563 euros. An additional supplement applies to people with disabilities—approximately 17% of the base amount.

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Example of benefit calculation for a single person

Let’s consider a specific situation: a single person with no income, pension, or property rents an apartment for 450 euros per month (including heating). The total need will be:

• 563 euros — basic living allowance;
• 450 euros — rent and heating.

Total: €1,013 per month. The state will pay this amount in full if there is no income. If there is a pension or other income, the benefit amount is reduced: the available income is deducted from the calculated total need, and the state covers the difference.

How to move to Germany in 2026 — read about it in this article.

Where to go and how to apply for Grundsicherung?

The local social welfare office—Sozialamt—handles the processing of basic income support. The procedure begins with submitting an application, and the date of application determines when payments begin: benefits are granted starting from the first day of the month in which the application was submitted. Retroactive payments are not provided, so it is not advisable to delay filing your application.

The standard duration of benefits is 12 months. After this period ends, you must reapply. It’s also important to note that staying outside Germany for more than four consecutive weeks will result in a temporary suspension of payments.

Important! A qualified immigration lawyer can help you navigate the intricacies of the German social security system, properly prepare your documents, and protect your rights. The Visit World portal offers consultations with specialists who focus on German immigration law and social security.

Book a consultation to get personalized answers to your questions and confidently navigate the benefits application process!

Reminder! In our previous article, we discussed the EU Blue Card in Germany 2026.

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