What benefits can I as a survivor receive from the pension insurance?
June 20, 2024 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Christian Voigt
Dear lawyer,
My name is Quentin Klein and I have a question regarding the benefits I can receive as a survivor from the pension insurance. My spouse recently passed away and I am worried about how I will financially make ends meet. My spouse was the main breadwinner in our family and I was mainly responsible for childcare. Now I am faced with the challenge of having to care for our children alone while also securing my own livelihood.
I have heard that there are various benefits for survivors, such as widow's pension or widower's pension. I would like to learn more about what benefits I am entitled to and how I can apply for them. Is there also support for the children in the form of orphan's pension? How long can I receive these benefits and are there specific requirements I must meet to qualify for them?
I am currently feeling very uncertain and would like to have clarity on what financial support is available to me as a survivor. I appreciate your help and assistance in addressing my questions and hope that you can help me.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Quentin Klein
Dear Mr. Klein,
first of all, I would like to express my sincere condolences on the loss of your spouse. It is understandable that you are concerned about your financial situation during this difficult time. As a lawyer specializing in social security law, I can assist you with your questions.
Firstly, I want to inform you that there are indeed various benefits available for surviving spouses in your situation. The most important benefits include widow's and widower's pensions, as well as orphan's pensions for children.
The widow's or widower's pension is typically paid to the surviving spouse if the deceased spouse has contributed to the statutory pension insurance. The amount of the pension depends on the deceased's pension entitlements and in some cases may also be linked to your own pension insurance. To apply for the widow's or widower's pension, you need to contact the relevant pension insurance provider and submit the necessary documents.
For the children of the deceased, there is also the option of receiving an orphan's pension. This pension is usually paid until the child reaches the age of 18, and in some cases beyond that if the child is still in education. The amount of the orphan's pension depends on the deceased's pension entitlement and can vary depending on the case.
To access the benefits as a surviving spouse, you must meet certain requirements, such as a specific waiting period or income limit. It is important that you contact your pension insurance provider early on and submit all the necessary documents to apply for the benefits.
Overall, the benefits for surviving spouses can be an important financial support during a difficult time. I recommend that you contact your pension insurance provider as soon as possible and seek advice on the benefits you are entitled to and how to apply for them.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours sincerely,
Christian Voigt
