Guides
In-depth guides for expats in Germany: how the German pension system, investing and taxes work, explained step by step.
Understanding the German Pension System: A Complete Guide for Expats
The German pension system is somewhat complex (and when I say somewhat complex I really mean "very complex"). In this guide, I'll break it down into clear, understandable pieces, so you can make sense of it and make better decisions based on that understanding.
Part 1 · The German State Pension Explained: How It Works and Where It Falls Short
How the German state pension works: contributions, pension points, the annual cap, how your allowance is calculated, and why the system is under strain.
Part 2 · Company Pensions in Germany (bAV): What Expats Need to Know
Company pensions (bAV) explained: your legal right, tax savings, the employer top-up, hidden fees and guarantees, and how to decide whether to opt in.
Part 3 · Private Pension Insurance in Germany: Costs, Riester and Rürup
Private pension insurance in Germany: how it works, what it really costs, why it's sold rather than bought, and what to know about Riester and Rürup.
Part 4 · The Altersvorsorgedepot (Riester 2.0) Explained
The Altersvorsorgedepot (Riester 2.0) from 2027: who can use it, allowances, tax deduction, product types, fees, switching providers and payout rules.
Part 5 · The Final Showdown: Independent Investing vs. German Pension Products
Independent ETF investing compared with German pension products: costs, taxes, and a 30-year model of eight strategies for an average earner.
Part 6 · Leaving Germany: What Happens to Your Pensions? An Expat FAQ
Leaving Germany? What happens to your state pension, company pension, private pension, Altersvorsorgedepot and ETFs, answered as an expat FAQ.