The arrival of the age of reform, traditionally associated with rest and stability, has been generating anxiety in many people. Uncertainty about future income and the possibility of insufficient pension leads many to question the feasibility of stopping working.
This feeling is not exclusive to Portugal. In France, for example, a poll of the Democratic French Confederation of Labor (CFDT) revealed that about 70% of the French fear the reform, and two thirds fear falling into poverty.
French example: support for those who have never worked
Despite these concerns, in France there is the possibility of accessing financial support even without a history of contributions. It is the “attribution of solidarity for the elderly” (ASPA), a monthly allowance for low income residents.
French Values and Criteria
By 2025, the maximum value of the ASPA is 1,034.28 euros monthly for a person alone and 1,605.73 euros for couples, according to the . This support is accessible to those who have lived in France for at least nine months a year and whose economic situation is below certain limits.
Specific conditions to benefit from this support
In addition to age requirements, 65, or 62 in case of recognized disability, it is necessary to prove the absence of other available pensions, including from other countries or by deceased spouse.
And in Portugal, what is there for those who have not contributed?
In our country, social security provides so -called non -contributory pensions. These are intended for those who, for various reasons, have not been able to accumulate enough discounts throughout their active life.
Two categories available in national territory
Non-contributory pensions are divided between pensions of disability, social age of old age and solidarity complement to the elderly. These require the beneficiary to have low income and are in a situation of recognized economic lack.
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Yield limits for access to the pension
By 2025, the annual income limit to access these installments is 7,905.80 euros. If the applicant lives with family members, the income of all members of the same living unit adds.
Monthly values assigned by social security
The amount of non -contributory pensions varies depending on the beneficiary’s situation, and may go from 141.18 euros to 564.70 euros per month. The exact value depends on the income calculated.
These installments intend to ensure the minimum of dignity to people who, by physical, social or economic limitations, have not been able to contribute to the system throughout life.
Increasing importance of this type of support
With the aging of the population and the labor precariousness of many citizens, it is expected that the number of non -contributory pension beneficiaries in the coming years.
Although available, many people do not know these aids or think they are entitled to any pension because they have never discounted. Information remains one of the major obstacles to access.
Comparing with other countries helps reflect
Although each country has its specifics, examples such as France are meant to reflect on possible paths that Portugal can follow to improve the social protection of the most vulnerable.
For those who approach the age of the reform or know someone in this situation, it is essential to seek clarification from social security and realize which supports are available, even if it has never been contributed.
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