Not all pensioners know, but there is an additional annual payment that can exceed 180 euros. This is the Lifetime Pension Increase, support intended for former combatants who contributed to Social Security and whose time of military service was counted as a bonus. According to the DECO PROTeste portal, the amount is awarded once a year and depends on proof that the beneficiary provided services under conditions of difficulty or danger.
This increase is for life and is added to the old-age or disability pension, but cannot be combined with other special supplements granted to former combatants. The objective is to recognize the contribution of those who served in risky missions, inside or outside the country, and compensate for this period permanently.
Who can benefit
According to the same source, the right to a Lifetime Pension Increase is reserved for military and ex-military personnel who have made Social Security deductions, thus ensuring that the length of service provided in a military context is considered for retirement purposes.
Those who served in the former Portuguese colonies between 1961 and 1975 are covered, as well as those who participated in military missions abroad, in peace or humanitarian operations under the auspices of international organizations such as the UN, NATO or the European Union. Even those who did not continue their career in the Armed Forces can request the benefit, as long as they have met the necessary contributions.
How to request an increase
To obtain payment, it is necessary to present a certificate issued by the Ministry of National Defense proving the length of service provided under risky conditions. The publication explains that the request must be made using form RP 5079-DGSS, available on the Social Security portal, and delivered to the respective services, the Caixa Geral de Aposentações or the Directorate-General for National Defense Resources.
Payment is made annually, in a single installment, generally in October. The value is calculated based on the contributions made, the age of the beneficiary and the revaluation factor for the current year.
Amounts and limits
The annual increase has a variable value, but is subject to minimum and maximum limits. According to DECO PROTeste, in 2025 it cannot be less than 93.50 euros nor more than 186.95 euros. These values follow the update of the Social Support Index (IAS), which this year rose 2.6%.
The calculation formula takes into account the actuarial coefficient, the total contributions paid and the corresponding revaluation factor. Thus, those who deducted more or had a longer contributory career will be able to receive an amount closer to the defined maximum ceiling.
Compatibilities and exclusions
It also states that the Lifetime Pension Increase can be accumulated with the disability or old-age pension, but not with the Special Pension Supplement or the Special Pension Supplement.
The latter are awarded under Law No. 46/2020 and apply to former combatants who served in theaters of war, representing 7% of the value of the social pension for each year of service or one twelfth of that value per month.
Altogether, these measures seek to compensate in a differentiated way for periods of service provided under exceptional conditions, guaranteeing permanent financial recognition for those who served the State on risky missions.
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