Overview

• Statutory pensions are paid only on application, and filing within three calendar months after the month of eligibility secures retroactive payment to the earliest start; later applications forfeit months under §99 SGB VI.
• Survivor pensions can be backpaid for up to twelve months before the application month, while disability pensions observe a statutory waiting period and are also constrained by the three-month retroactivity rule.
• Who can retire in 2026 depends on birth date and insurance years: the 1959–1960 cohorts reach the rising regular age (66y2m–66y4m), 1961–1962 with 45 years can retire earlier without deductions, and those turning 63 in 2026 with 35 years face permanent reductions.
• Pensions are typically credited on the last bank working day of the month for that month, with pre‑April 2004 pensions and linked survivor benefits paid in advance on the prior month’s last bank working day.
• Cash pension payouts end at the 2025/2026 year change via Deutsche Post’s service, so beneficiaries must ensure an active bank account and timely filing ahead of 2026.