Versorgungsberechtigten

Versorgungsberechtigte is a German term used in social and pension law to designate individuals who have a legally recognized claim to ongoing provision or benefits from a pension scheme, care system, or similar arrangement. The term covers recipients of regular payments such as pensions, disability benefits, or survivor benefits, as well as dependents who are entitled to a portion of those benefits under the applicable rules.

The concept appears in various contexts. In statutory pension systems, Versorgungsberechtigte can include retirees and, in some cases, surviving spouses, registered partners, or children who are eligible for survivor’s pensions or child benefits. In civil service and in private occupational pension plans, the category encompasses those who have earned pension rights and/or are eligible to receive benefits upon retirement, disability, or death. The precise eligibility criteria are defined by law, the regulations of a pension fund, or the terms of an employment or pension contract.

Eligibility is typically determined by factors such as age, duration of service, disability status, family relationships, or dependency. The rights of Versorgungsberechtigte may be subject to conditions and may involve ongoing monthly payments, periodic supplements, or one-time sums, depending on the relevant scheme.

Related concepts include pension systems, survivor benefits, disability benefits, and, in family law, the division of pension rights in the context of a Versorgungsausgleich. The designation of Versorgungsberechtigte clarifies who has a valid and ongoing claim to such provision under the applicable legal framework.