Germany to verify orphan's pension eligibility for thousands of youths

The German Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung - DRV) is launching a verification process in September for recipients of orphan's pensions (Waisenrente) aged 18 to 27. The agency will send out verification letters, known as ‘Nachprüfungsschreiben’, to certain beneficiaries to confirm they still meet the eligibility requirements.

To maintain payments, recipients must provide documentation proving they are currently enrolled in school or university, participating in vocational training (Ausbildung), or engaged in voluntary service. Required documents include current enrollment certificates, training contracts, or diplomas. These can be submitted digitally via specific DRV forms or by mail.

Failure to submit the requested documentation within the specified timeframe may result in the suspension of pension payments. The DRV notes that for those transitioning between educational levels, such as moving from high school to university, payments may continue if the gap between terms does not exceed four months.