Active Retirement: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to continue working while receiving part of your pension under the Active Retirement scheme in Spain.
Active Retirement is a system designed for professionals who have reached the official retirement age but choose to stay in the workforce rather than stopping work entirely.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically intended for professionals who have reached the age required for retirement under Spanish law. It is meant for those who are not ready to step away from their careers and wish to maintain their professional activity while beginning to access their retirement benefits.
What you get
The primary benefit of this scheme is the ability to combine your working income with your pension. Specifically, you are permitted to continue earning your professional salary or business income while simultaneously drawing 50% of your pension. This provides a financial bridge for those who want to stay active in their field without losing the entirety of their social security benefits.
What it costs you
There is no direct fee to enter this scheme, but it does affect your social security obligations. When you transition to this status, you will deal with reduced social security contributions. You should check the official government portal to understand how these changes to your contributions will specifically impact your individual account.
The catch to know
The most important restriction to keep in mind is your employment status. You cannot be a public employee and participate in this scheme at the same time. If your work involves being a public servant, this specific path for receiving partial pension benefits while working may not be available to you.
How to apply
- Confirm that you have reached the legal retirement age required by the authorities.
- Determine if your specific professional role is compatible with the scheme, ensuring you are not a public employee.
- Gather the necessary documentation regarding your current professional status and income.
- Submit your request through the official social security channels to begin the transition to partial pension and active work status.