Pension record: raising children and caring for relatives can count as contributions
The information is for people insured in Germany who reduce or interrupt work to raise children or care for relatives. Deutsche Rentenversicherung notes that, subject to specific conditions, these periods can be taken into account in the pension record.
Existing rules in Germany · DRV information dated 12 October 2026
What can be recognised
Compulsory pension contributions may be credited for raising children or caring for relatives when the statutory conditions are met. These periods can partly offset lower personal contributions resulting from reduced paid work.
What to check
Check the Versicherungsverlauf to see whether the relevant periods appear in the pension record. If they are missing, ask Deutsche Rentenversicherung about account clarification and the evidence required; the agency also provides free publications on the subject.
Not automatic in every case
Recognition depends on the legal conditions and individual circumstances. The DRV notice explains rules already in force; it does not introduce new legislation or guarantee a particular pension increase.
General information as of publication. Individual circumstances and the responsible institution’s rules may require additional documents or steps.