Germany distinguishes between disability and reduced earning capacity pensions

In Germany, there are distinct differences between the reduced earning capacity pension (Erwerbsminderungsrente) and the pension for severely disabled persons (Schwerbehindertenrente). The former is based on a person's inability to work due to health reasons, while the latter is linked to age, insurance periods, and a recognized degree of disability.

A full reduced earning capacity pension requires that an individual can work fewer than three hours daily on the general labor market. A partial pension applies to those who can work between three and six hours. Conversely, the pension for severely disabled people does not require a medical reduction in work capacity to under six hours; an individual can be severely disabled yet remain fully capable of working.

Psychological illnesses, including depression, are a leading cause for new claims. In 2024, approximately 40.4% of new entries were in the field of psychosomatics and psychotherapy. However, a diagnosis alone does not guarantee a pension. The principle of