This article explains the widowhood pension managed by the National Institute of Social Security. It is a financial benefit available to people who have lost a spouse or a civil partner and who meet the required conditions. There are rules that can lead to the loss of the right to continue receiving the pension, as determined by public administration. Here are five common reasons why a widow may lose the pension.
It is important to remember that nine conditions must be met to access the widow’s pension. If any of these requirements are not satisfied, the relevant agency will not provide the pension. What happens if a beneficiary already receives support but fails to meet certain conditions? In such cases, the National Social Security Administration can withdraw the right to continue receiving the widow’s pension.
Important update for retirees and former workers
There are five primary reasons the widow’s pension might be reduced or stopped. These are listed below for clarity and awareness.
- Remarriage or entering a new civil partnership: If the beneficiary marries or forms a new civil partnership, the right to continue receiving the pension ends.
- Causing the death of the pensioner: If the beneficiary is found responsible for the death of the spouse or civil partner, the pension is forfeited.
- Death of the beneficiary: In the event of the beneficiary’s death, the widow’s pension is cancelled.
- Imposition that the pension cannot be drawn due to the pensioner’s non-survival status: If it is determined that the pension is not due to a surviving person, benefit payments stop.
- Criminal harm against the person who provided the pension: If the beneficiary is convicted of harming the spouse or civil partner, the widow’s pension is lost.
Adjustments in 2023 and how the pension is paid
It is important to note that not all loss conditions have to apply at once; one condition alone can stop the pension payments. However, exceptions exist. If the beneficiary is over 61 years old or already receives a disability pension, they may continue to receive a survivor pension even if some conditions apply. Additionally, the widow’s pension must be the beneficiary’s main income source and cannot exceed twice the minimum wage, meaning two people together cannot earn more than a certain monthly limit.
How much will the non-contributory pensions increase in 2023
The government confirmed an 8.5% increase for widows’ pensions in 2023. As a result, the minimum pension rose to 593.27 euros per month, up by 46.47 euros. For families with dependents, the maximum widow’s pension increased from 834.80 euros to 905.76 euros per month.
Future retirement schedules and shifting ages
There is a roster of widow’s pensions for different beneficiary groups. These figures reflect the changes in 2023 and the evolving policy landscape. For example, those with family responsibilities receive higher annual amounts, while older adults with significant disability qualify for different annual totals. The data below illustrates typical yearly amounts by category.
- With family responsibilities: 11,688.60 euros per year.
- Persons over 65 years of age or with disability equal to or greater than 65%: 10,103.80 euros per year.
- Owners aged 60 to 64: 9,452.80 euros per year.
- Under 60 without dependents: 7,655.20 euros per year.
Why retirees are fortunate
In summary, a widow’s pension is a supportive benefit that remains payable only when certain conditions are met consistently. Beneficiaries should stay informed about these requirements to maintain eligibility and continue receiving the corresponding payments.