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Rehab before pension: reintegration instead of early retirement

In social law, the principle 'rehab before pension' applies: before a reduced-earning-capacity pension is granted, it should be checked whether the ability to work can be restored through medical or vocational rehabilitation. This is meant to enable those affected to remain in working life.

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Benefits for participation take precedence over the pension for reduced earning capacity (§ 9 SGB VI). The pension insurance therefore first checks whether rehab benefits can maintain or restore the ability to work.
This includes medical rehabilitation and benefits for participation in working life, such as retraining. Under certain circumstances, a rehab application can be reinterpreted as a pension application if the ability to work cannot be improved.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Apply for rehab

    If needed, submit an application for medical or vocational rehab.

  2. 2

    2. Cooperate

    Take part in rehab measures and work on your reintegration.

  3. 3

    3. Assess the result

    Clarify whether the ability to work could be restored.

  4. 4

    4. Check the pension

    If not, a reduced-earning-capacity pension may be considered.

How to spot the scam

  • A reasonable rehab is not cooperated with, without an important reason.
  • The connection between rehab and pension is overlooked.
  • Deadlines for applications or objections pass.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'rehab before pension' mean?

The principle that benefits for participation (rehabilitation) take precedence over a reduced-earning-capacity pension (§ 9 SGB VI). Before a pension is granted, the pension insurance checks whether the ability to work can be maintained or restored through medical or vocational rehab.

Do I have to take part in a rehab?

If a reasonable rehab is offered, you should cooperate. If you refuse to cooperate without an important reason, that can jeopardize benefits. The rehab is meant to help you stay in working life, which is usually more favorable than early retirement.

What happens if the rehab does not help?

If the ability to work cannot be restored, a pension for partial or full reduced earning capacity may be considered. In certain cases, a rehab application can count as a pension application. Get advice on the next steps.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.