Greece overhauls survivor pensions, ending three-year reduction

Greece is set to implement significant changes to its survivor pension system, notably abolishing the rule that reduced pensions after three years.

Under the new framework, eligible recipients will continue to receive 70% of the deceased's pension even after the initial three-year period. This effectively eliminates the previous reduction, which would have lowered the benefit to 35% under the Katrougalos law.

While this change offers long-term financial stability for many, it comes with a crucial caveat: no retroactive payments will be issued. This means individuals who had their pensions reduced in the past will not receive compensation for the lost income.

For those who had already experienced the reduction, their pensions will be restored to the 70% rate going forward. However, they will not be compensated for the years they received a lower amount. The changes are effective from the new regulation's start date and do not create past obligations or claims.

The reform is expected to benefit over 80,000 recipients. Additionally, approximately 122,000 pensioners will retain the right to receive two national pensions if they stem from different insurance rights. Examples illustrate the practical effects: a 700-euro pension will remain 700 euros after three years, and those whose pensions were cut from 700 to 350 euros will see them restored to 700 euros without back pay.