Basic pension supplement: the 2027 recalculation is automatic
This information concerns pensioners in Germany with low incomes and long periods recognised for pension purposes. Deutsche Rentenversicherung automatically checks entitlement to the Grundrentenzuschlag and recalculates it each year; this is not a new benefit and no separate application is required.
Existing rule · automatic annual review for 1 January 2027
Who may receive the supplement
At least 33 years of qualifying Grundrentenzeiten are required. These may include compulsory contribution periods from employment or self-employment, child-raising, caring for relatives and certain periods of illness or rehabilitation. The pension is not simply raised to a fixed minimum; the supplement is calculated individually.
Which income is reviewed for 2027
For the supplement applying from 1 January 2027, the tax office will generally transmit 2024 income data in autumn 2026; 2023 data may be used if necessary. The review covers taxable income, the tax-free portion of pensions and public-service pension payments, and investment income. A spouse's or registered partner's income is also included, subject to the statutory allowances.
No application is required
DRV carries out the review automatically. If the result changes the Grundrentenzuschlag, the pension may be higher or lower from January 2027 and the person concerned will receive a written decision. The exact amount depends on the pension periods on record and the income reported to DRV.
Source published:
General information as of publication. Individual circumstances and the responsible institution’s rules may require additional documents or steps.