Part 4/11:
The "Aktivrente": Extending Work into Retirement
A central component of the pension reform is the introduction of the "Aktivrente" — a policy allowing seniors who wish to continue working after retirement to earn additional income tax-free, up to 2,000 euros per month. Currently, many retirees face high taxes on supplementary earnings, which discourages part-time or flexible work.
Wolfgang Süß, a 67-year-old delivery driver from Erkrath, exemplifies this change. He has been working full-time since his retirement and plans to continue doing so, motivated by passion rather than money. Starting in 2026, retirees can work without heavy tax penalties within the specified limits, potentially helping to address Germany's shortage of skilled workers.