An important change for retirees in Germany will take effect in 2026. Pension payments will no longer be made in cash, but only through bank accounts.

This new regulation will temporarily suspend the pensions of retirees without bank accounts. However, earned pensions will not be canceled.

The German Pension Insurance advises retirees in this situation to open a bank account as soon as possible. Everyone has the legal right to open a basic bank account.

Starting in 2026, having a bank account will be mandatory for all retirees. This means the end of the cash pension era in Germany.

There are also important warnings for those delaying their retirement applications. Those who do not apply in 2025 may face a permanent decrease in their pensions.

Experts emphasize the importance of applying for retirement on time. Otherwise, retirees may experience a loss of income during periods of high inflation.