Turkey Allows Retirees Insured Before 2008 to Work Without Pension Cuts

In Turkey, the Social Security system treats retirees who were first insured before 1 October 2008 as “old‑era” workers. These pensioners can continue employment without any reduction to their retirement benefits, provided their employer pays the Social Security Support Premium (SGDP).

Retirees who first entered the insurance system after that date are considered “new‑era” workers; if they work, their pension is automatically deducted. The SGDP contributions protect only against work‑related accidents and illnesses and do not increase the pension amount.

The rule, clarified by social security expert Özgür Erdursun, affects millions of retirees considering a return to the labor market and determines whether they must forgo their pension or can retain it while earning a salary.