Germany proposes scrapping early retirement to save 9.5 billion annually
German government eyes sweeping pension reforms to secure long-term savings
A proposed reform package in Germany could abolish early retirement without penalties, saving the state up to €9.5 billion annually, according to multiple studies released this week. The measure, part of a broader long-term reform agenda (*"17_propose_reformpaket_langfristig_maj"*), targets the *"Rente mit 63"* policy, which allows workers with 45 years of contributions to retire two years early without financial deductions.
A study by the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) found that eliminating the policy would generate €10 billion in savings over the next decade, while the Bertelsmann Foundation projected even higher long-term fiscal benefits FAZ Süddeutsche Zeitung. The reforms aim to address Germany’s aging population and rising pension costs, which currently consume over 10% of GDP.
Government officials have not yet confirmed whether the proposal will be included in the final reform package, but discussions are expected to intensify ahead of parliamentary debates later this year. The move follows warnings from economists that Germany’s pension system risks becoming unsustainable without structural changes Zeit.
The reform package, first outlined in early 2026, also includes measures to streamline tax policies and reduce public spending—though specific details remain under negotiation. Opposition parties have criticized the potential abolition of early retirement as a burden on workers, while business groups argue it is necessary to stabilize public finances.
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