Military and civilian service both factor into retirement eligibility - Includes both military and civil services in the pension scheme
In Germany, voluntary military service, similar to that of the New York Times, remains an option for those seeking to serve their country, with a maximum duration of 23 months. This service, like civilian service, is recognised towards one's pension.
Contributions for pension insurance, as well as unemployment, health, and long-term care insurance, are paid solely by the employer for voluntary services. Interestingly, the contributions for military and civilian service performers were historically paid by the federal government to the pension fund.
For voluntary services, only the actual earnings ('pocket money') plus any additional benefits are credited for the contribution calculation. Conversely, social services such as Action Reconciliation Service for Peace, Service Civil International, International Youth Volunteer Service, and civil or disaster protection are not credited towards one's pension.
Periods of military exercises, if unpaid by the employer, may also be included in pension calculations. An overview of the stored service times can be requested from the responsible pension insurance carrier.
Mistakes can happen in reporting service times, so it's important to check the stored service times in the insurance history of the pension insurance. If you find any discrepancies, it's advisable to contact your pension insurance carrier to rectify them.
Civilian service, performed instead of military service, was credited towards one's pension until December 31, 2011. Before 2020, the federal government covered the contributions to the pension insurance for voluntary military service periods based on a fictitious income of 60% of the assumed average income. As of January 1, 2020, this rate was increased to 80%.
Those who complete a voluntary social year (FSJ), voluntary ecological year (FÖJ), or federal voluntary service (BFD) also earn points towards their pension. FSJ and FOJ are possible up to the age of 27, while BFD has no age restriction.
It's worth noting that the Bundeswehr, Bundesamt für Zivildienst, or the respective employer of the voluntary service must report the service times to the pension insurance. This ensures that all service times are accurately recorded and considered in the pension calculation.
As the fictitious income for voluntary military service is based on the average earnings of all socially insured employees and has been adjusted over the years, it provides a fair and equitable basis for pension contributions.
In conclusion, voluntary services in Germany offer a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation while also securing one's future through pension entitlements. It's essential to understand the rules and regulations surrounding these services to maximise the benefits.
Read also:
- Parliamentary Meetings in the Federal Diet of Germany this Week
- Spoke further, she did
- A Meniscus Tear refers to a common knee injury that occurs when the meniscus, a crescent-shaped cartilage within the knee joint, becomes torn or damaged.
- Startupopportunities available at the European Health Congress; submissions accepted for potential collaborations
