Buying Additional Pension Credits involves voluntarily paying contributions for periods during which you did not contribute, so that these periods are included in the calculation of your pension.

It is important to note that the European Union does not provide a uniform mechanism for buying additional pension credits in the Greater Region. Each EU member state has its own national rules.

However, it is worth noting that purchased periods are recorded in your career statement and are therefore recognized abroad.

Retroactive payments for training periods in Germany

Individuals who voluntarily pay pension contributions increase their pension rights and may be able to retire earlier in certain circumstances, provided that minimum insurance periods are met.

Conditions

Conditions

  • The application can only be submitted up to the age of 45.
  • Payments can be made in multiple installments over a maximum period of 5 years.
  • The cost is €1,320.60 in 2025, which is €83.70 per month.

Eligible Periods

Study periods after the age of 16 that are not already counted as contributory periods can be covered by retroactive payments. These periods must not have been covered by previous contributions. They include, in particular, studies at school, technical high school, or university, vocational training between the ages of 16 and 17, as well as enrollment periods following the completion of a degree.

How to Apply

Anyone who, with the help of their pension advisor, believes that a retroactive payment is justified must submit a request.

To do so, use form V0080, which can be downloaded here: Download Form V0080.

The form can be submitted online or by mail to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung.