Spain’s retirees find themselves in a favorable position this year. In 2024, income levels rise thanks to reforms approved by the government in 2023. The reforms include a notable revaluation in the current year. Social Security and the IMSERSO, the Institute for the Elderly and Social Services, offer a range of subsidies to households in need, helping many families manage monthly debt payments. There are also payments that many potential beneficiaries may overlook, such as a benefit specifically designed for housewives.
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The role of a housewife is valued by society, yet it often does not appear on Social Security’s official records as a formal job, which means no earnings are saved for a future contributory pension. Consequently, housewives can be at risk when it is time to stop working. However, they can access a non-contributory pension of €7,250.60 per year in 2024, provided they meet certain income limits and other qualifying conditions.
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Non-contributory retirement (PNC) payments rose by 6.9% in 2024, following an extraordinary increase that approved a higher rate for contributors. The Ministry of Social Security, led by a dedicated minister, affirmed that pensions will continue to receive strong emphasis so that older adults obtain essential support throughout the month. It is important to note that a housewife is not a domestic worker; the former does not contribute to Social Security, while the latter does participate in the public retirement system.
Housewives must meet certain conditions to qualify for a pension
Anyone applying for a non-contributory pension should know that several parameters determine eligibility, including age, income, and place of residence. These safeguards aim to ensure support reaches those who truly need it. The qualifying criteria are:
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Not having paid Social Security contributions.
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Being 65 years of age or older.
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Having an annual income below €7,250.60.
Additionally, applicants must be Spanish citizens or legal residents of Spain for at least 10 years, with two of those periods being consecutive and occurring immediately before the date of request.
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There are exceptions to these obligations that can be bypassed if there are more family members living in the home. The number of cohabitants influences the limits for claiming benefits. Therefore, the annual income of all members of the economic cohabitation unit must be below the specified figures.
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€12,326.02 for two people living together
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€17,401.44 for three people living together
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€22,476.86 for four people living together
If cohabitants include parents or children, the limits increase as follows:
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€30,815.05 for two people
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€43,503.60 for three people
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€56,192.15 for four people
How much will retirees receive?
Those approved for the concession will receive an amount based on their personal income and the size of the cohabitation unit. The monthly payment can vary, but a common reference is 25% of the pension, equivalent to €129.48 per month (about €1,812.65 per year). The total pension can reach €517.90 per month (€7,250.60 per year).
Therefore, housewives with no other income will receive their full pension without contributions. If other income exists, the pension will be reduced accordingly, but never below the minimum guaranteed share of 25%. When other retirees in the cohabitation unit also receive non-contributory pensions, the amounts follow the figures determined by IMSERSO and available on its website.