Get your pension refund. Online and hassle-free.”

Fundsback.org

Supporting expats since 2014

Reclaim Your German Pension Contributions:

Unlock Your Retirement Funds Today

Maximize Your German Pension Refund!

Did you work in Germany? Claim your entitlements today. Average refund: 9,328€. Unlock your benefits now!

Claim Your Hard-Earned Money: Hassle-Free Process for Non-EU Citizens

Claim Your Hard-Earned Money: Hassle-Free Pension Refund for Non-EU Citizens Made Easy with Fundsback. As a non-EU citizen, reclaiming your pension refund in Germany can be complex and time-consuming. That’s where Fundsback comes in. We specialize in handling the entire process and all the paperwork and procedures. Our experienced team will diligently work on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and efficient refund process. Let us handle the complexities while you relax and await your hard-earned money. Get started with Fundsback today and experience a hassle-free pension refund journey.

Get your pension refund in 3 simple steps:

Are you tired of finding, filling, and filing the appropriate documents to get your pension refund?
Use our A to Z Digital Refund Service and let us deal with German bureaucracy for you!

Step 1: Free Eligibility Check

Discover Your Eligibility to Reclaim Your Pension Contributions!

Step 2: Free Refund Calculation

We inquiring with the German Pension Fund for an Accurate, Personalized Refund Calculation.

Step 3: Apply Online and Get your Refund

Apply for Hassle-Free Assistance and Let Us Handle the Entire Process on Your Behalf!

No Win, No Fee

In case of a successful refund of pension contributions (not before), we receive a lump sum of 9.9% of the actual refund amount (minimum fee of 899€, maximum of 2899€).

  • Expert-check for Documents
  • Guidance throughout the Process
  • Multilingual Customer Support
  • Hassle-free Bureaucracy
  • From everywhere

The Pension Refund Process

Apply for your pension refund today.
Online, digital, and hassle-free. 

Pension Check
Pension Check

Requesting the insurance history from the German Pension Insurance to check whether all periods are correctly recorded and to identify incorrect or missing periods.

Pension Refund Germany
Options for action

We evaluate the insurance history to determine the reimbursement claim against the German Pension Insurance and show the possible courses of action.

Pension Refund Germany
Pension Cash Out

With the Pension Cash Out, the contributions made are retrieved and paid out to ours. We take care of all the necessary steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our service aims to assist customers in determining if they are eligible for a refund on a portion of their paid pension contributions. This service is free of charge.

How does the contribution refund process work?

Recovering your contributions to the German pension system after working in Germany is challenging. It involves dealing with numerous paper forms and limited online communication through the German pension fund.

You’ll need to provide proof of various things, such as your work history, family situation, nationality, and where you live. Sending paperwork internationally by mail can be risky as documents may get lost or take a long time to arrive. The process may become even more time-consuming if you don’t have a German bank account.

Here’s a general overview:

Eligibility Check: Determine if you qualify for a contribution refund. Factors such as being a non-EU citizen, working in Germany, and relocating to a non-contracting country are typically considered. A waiting period, usually two years, may also apply.

Required Documentation: Gather necessary documents like employment proof, residency status in the non-contracting country, and other relevant records. Familiarize yourself with specific requirements set by the German pension fund.

Submit Your Claim: Complete the application form or follow the online submission process provided by the relevant institution or program handling the refund. Provide accurate and complete information for a smooth process.

Review and Verification: Your claim undergoes an assessment and verification process. The institution checks your eligibility, reviews your documentation, and verifies your contribution amounts. Processing time varies based on the institution.

Processing and Payment: Upon approval, the institution processes your refund. The amount depends on contributions, marital status, and the number of children. The refund is issued according to your preferred payment method.

Note that the process may differ based on your employment type, number of children, or the specific country involved. We recommend our service to simplify the process and receive English customer support and legal assistance. We handle inquiries and streamline the procedure for a smooth and efficient experience. Contact us today.

What are the steps involved in claiming back contributions?

To claim back contributions, follow these simplified steps:

  1. Check eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria, such as being a non-EU citizen who worked in Germany and relocated to a non-contracting country. Please use our Free Eligibility Check.
  2. Gather documentation: Collect necessary paperwork, including employment records, residency proof, and other required documents.
  3. Complete the application: Fill out the form or provide the requested information.
  4. Submit your claim: Send your completed application and supporting documents to the German pension fund.
  5. Review and verification: The German pension fund will review your claim and verify your eligibility and documentation.
  6. Processing and payment: If approved, the German pension fund will process your claim and issue the refund according to their payment procedures.

Specific requirements and procedures can vary, so you should contact the German pension fund directly for detailed instructions (remember, the authorities often don’t speak English).

If you are a non-EU citizen looking to claim mandatory contributions to the German pension fund back, the process can be complex and time-consuming. 

Some documents must be completed in German, adding to the challenge. That’s why we highly recommend our service. With English customer support and legal assistance, we take care of all inquiries and handle the entire process for you. 

Our experienced team is well-versed in the intricacies, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. While timelines may vary based on individual circumstances and external factors, we strive to provide accurate information. 

By entrusting your claim to us, you can confidently navigate the complexities, knowing that we are dedicated to streamlining the process and achieving the best possible outcome. Contact us today to simplify your refund process and receive professional assistance every step of the way.

Is there a specific timeline for the refund process?

The refund process for your contributions can vary depending on factors such as tax class, marital status, countries of residence, and number of children. Here are some essential details to consider:

Waiting Period: You must wait 24 months after your last pension contribution before applying for a refund. At Fundsback, we offer a free reminder service to notify you when the waiting period is over.

Processing Time: Once you submit your claim and the waiting period has passed, the refund process typically takes 2-6 months. However, please note that this timeframe is an estimate and can be influenced by various factors.

International Transfers: If the refund needs to be transferred to a foreign account, it may take slightly longer. International transfers involve additional administrative steps and banking procedures, which can extend the overall timeline.

Please remember that these timelines are approximate and can vary based on your circumstances and external factors. We recommend contacting the German pension fund directly for more accurate and detailed information regarding the timeline specific to your situation.

Claiming mandatory contributions to the German pension fund can be complex, especially for non-EU citizens. All documentation is in German, and the procedure must be conducted in German.

To simplify the process, we offer our service, providing English customer support and legal assistance. We handle all inquiries on your behalf, ensuring a smooth experience. Our team maintains regular communication with the German pension fund, keeping you informed about the progress of your claim.

By choosing our service, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the German pension refund process. We strive to provide a hassle-free experience and achieve the best possible outcome for you.

What will this service cost me?

Our company assists foreigners who want to reclaim their mandatory contributions made to the German pension fund during their employment in Germany.

One of the benefits of our service is that we only charge a fee upon successful completion. Once our clients receive their refund, we take a 10% cut of that amount as our payment. However, to cover our costs and the effort involved, we have set a minimum fee of 899€. This means that even if the refund is lower, our price will be at least 899€.

Additionally, we have placed a cap on our earnings. If a customer receives a substantial refund, we will only take a maximum fee of 2899€. This ensures that our cost remains reasonable even for more significant refund amounts. Our work is reviewed by lawyers and involves considerable effort on our part.

So you don’t need to pay anything upfront. We take our share at the end before transferring your refund to your account.

How long does it typically take to receive the refund?

The timeframe to receive the refund can vary depending on the case’s complexity and administrative procedures. Here’s a concise version:

Processing Time: After approval, processing the refund usually takes several weeks. Factors such as German pension fund efficiency, the volume of claims, and missing documents impact the exact duration.

International Transfers: If transferring to a foreign account, additional time may be needed due to administrative and banking procedures.

Communication: Stay in touch with the German pension fund for updates and respond promptly to inquiries. Due to time shifts, slow postal mail, and loss of communication via physical mail communication can become time-consuming.

Remember that the specific timeframe depends on various factors. 

We recommend using our service to claim back mandatory contributions to the German pension fund, especially for non-EU citizens. The process can be lengthy and complex and must be completed in German in parts.

By choosing to work with us, you benefit from our English customer service and legal assistance. We handle all inquiries on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of the refund process, relieving you of the burden of navigating through it alone.

Who is eligible to claim back contributions?

Eligibility for claiming back previously paid retirement contributions into the German pension scheme depends on several basic requirements. These include:

No Longer Subject to Compulsory Contributions: You must no longer be obligated to make compulsory contributions to the German pension scheme. This means you no longer work or reside in Germany, and your current circumstances exempt you from mandatory contributions.

24 Months Since Last Payment: The last payment into the German pension scheme must have been made at least 24 months ago. This waiting period is a prerequisite before you become eligible to apply for the contribution refund.

Inability to Pay Voluntarily: You have no option to contribute to the German pension insurance scheme voluntarily. This means that you are not eligible to continue making contributions even if you wish to do so.

Please note that the possibility of paying into the German pension insurance scheme voluntarily depends on factors such as your nationality and current place of residence. It is essential to consider these factors when determining eligibility for the contribution refund.

Claiming mandatory contributions to the German pension fund back can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for non-EU citizens. 

We recommend our service, offering English customer support and legal assistance. We handle all inquiries and streamline the procedure, saving you the hassle of dealing with it yourself. Contact us for a smooth and efficient experience.

Are there any specific requirements or conditions for eligibility?

If you have a German passport, you can voluntarily pay into the pension insurance scheme until you reach retirement age, no matter where you currently reside. It is why German citizens are generally not eligible for pension reimbursement. (Also applies to dual citizenship).

Little chance of pension refund: EEA is the German abbreviation for European Economic Area, including all 27 EU countries + Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Switzerland is neither part of the EU nor of the EEA. Nevertheless, they are linked to the EU by many treaties, which means that Swiss citizens are on an equal footing with EU citizens in most areas. The same rule has applied to the United Kingdom since Brexit. 

Suppose you have citizenship in the EEA states (except Germany), Switzerland, or the United Kingdom. In that case, you can also pay into the German pension insurance scheme voluntarily until you reach retirement age, and a refund will only be possible once you reach retirement age. With one exception: you currently live in a non-contracting state. (No matter how long you have worked in Germany).

Medium-high chance of pension reimbursement: The Contracting States are countries that have a social security agreement with Germany. If you belong to one of these countries, you have a good chance of receiving a pension refund: 

  • Albania
  • Australia
  • Bosnia-Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • India
  • Israel
  • Japan
  • Canada and Quebec
  • Kosovo
  • Morocco
  • Moldova
  • Montenegro
  • Northern Macedonia
  • Philippines
  • Serbia
  • South Korea
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • Uruguay
  • USA

As a citizen of a Contracting State, you are eligible for the pension refund if:

  • You have worked in Germany for less than five years and now live in a Contracting or Non-Contracting State, or
  • You worked in Germany for more than five years and now live in a non-contracting state.

High chance of pension reimbursement: If your country is neither one of the EEA countries nor one of the contracting states, it counts as a non-contracting state. It includes all states that do not have a social security agreement with Germany. 

At the same time, this means that as a national of a non-contracting state, regardless of your place of residence, you can virtually never make voluntary contributions to the German pension insurance scheme. You are very well qualified for a refund of your pension if:

  • You now live in a contracting state. No matter how many years you have worked in Germany, or
  • You live now in a non-contracting state. No matter how many years you worked in Germany.

It’s important to note that these conditions and requirements are general information and can vary depending on the specific factors of your case, such as your previous tax class, your marital status, the countries you have lived in, the number of children, and more. 

Claiming mandatory contributions to the German pension fund can be lengthy and complicated, particularly for non-EU citizens. All documents are in German, and the procedure must be completed in German.

To simplify this process, we recommend using our service. We provide English customer service and legal assistance, handling all inquiries on your behalf. Our expertise ensures a smooth experience, taking care of the intricacies involved.

We keep regular communication with the German pension fund throughout the refund process. This helps you stay informed about the progress of your claim.

By choosing our service, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the German pension refund process. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with a hassle-free experience and the best possible outcome.

What if I changed my residence after working in Germany?

Changing your residence after working in Germany can impact your eligibility and the specific requirements for claiming a pension contribution refund. Here are some key considerations:

Non-Contracting State: If you have relocated to a non-contracting state, regardless of the duration of your employment in Germany, you may have a high chance of being eligible for a pension reimbursement. This means you can claim a refund of your contributions, regardless of your current residence.

Contracting State: If you have moved to a contracting state, your eligibility for a pension refund depends on the specific agreements between Germany and that country. 

Generally, you may be eligible for a refund if you have worked in Germany for less than five years and now live in a contracting or non-contracting state. 

However, if you have worked in Germany for over five years and reside in a non-contracting state, you may qualify for a refund.

EEA Countries and Switzerland: If you have changed your residence to an EEA country or Switzerland, the rules and eligibility for a pension refund may vary.

We recommend using our service to claim mandatory contributions to the German pension fund, especially for non-EU citizens. The process can be lengthy and complex and must be completed in German, as all documents are also in German.

By choosing to work with us, you benefit from our English customer service and legal assistance. We handle all inquiries on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of the refund process, relieving you of the burden of navigating through it alone.

It’s important to note that the eligibility criteria and requirements can differ based on your employment type, the number of children, or the country involved. 

While we strive to provide accurate timelines, it’s important to note that these are approximate and subject to variation based on the specific circumstances of your case and the external factors involved.

By entrusting your claim to our service, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the German pension refund process, knowing that our dedicated team is working diligently on your behalf. We are here to streamline the procedure, providing you with a hassle-free experience and the best possible outcome.

What documents are required to support my contribution refund claim?

Claiming a contribution refund from the German pension fund can be essential for individuals who have paid mandatory contributions and meet specific eligibility criteria. 

To support your contribution refund claim, you must provide certain documents that vary depending on your previous tax class, marital status, the countries you have lived in, the number of children, and individual circumstances. Here are the commonly requested documents:

Proof of Identity: A valid identification document, such as a passport or national ID card, is typically required to verify your identity.

Proof of Employment in Germany: Documents that demonstrate your previous employment in Germany, such as employment contracts, payslips, or social security statements, are necessary to establish your work history.

Proof of Residency: You may need to provide documents establishing your current residency in a non-contracting country. This can include residency permits, utility bills, rental agreements, or other official documents.

Proof of Contributions: Documents showing your contributions to the German pension system during your employment in Germany are essential. This can include pension contribution statements, annual pension reports, or other relevant documentation from the German pension authorities or your employer.

Banking Information: You will be asked to provide your bank account details, including the account number, for processing the refund payment.

It’s important to note that the specific documents required may vary depending on your previous tax class, your marital status, the countries you have lived in, the number of children, and more.

Additionally, there may be additional documents or particular requirements based on your unique circumstances. 

That’s why we highly recommend our service. With English customer support and legal assistance, we take care of all inquiries and handle the entire process for you. 

Our experienced team is well-versed in the intricacies, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. While timelines may vary based on individual circumstances and external factors, we strive to provide accurate information. 

Regarding eligibility, the criteria for claiming a contribution refund depend on various factors. Here’s a general overview:

  • If you have paid mandatory contributions to the German pension fund for less than 5 years and live outside of the EU, you may be eligible for a refund.
  • Non-EU citizens can apply for a refund if more than 24 months have passed since their last contribution.
  • German citizens and citizens of another EU country may be able to claim a refund after reaching the German retirement age.
  • If you have paid contributions for 5 years or more, you will not be eligible for a refund. Instead, you can apply for a monthly pension upon reaching the German retirement age.

To claim a refund, you will need to fill out, sign, and submit the following documentation to the German Pension Insurance:

  • Form “Antrag auf Beitragserstattung” (Application for a Pension Contribution Refund)
  • “Zahlungsermächtigung” (Declaration of Payment, Form 1064)
  • “Certificate of Life and Citizenship” (Form A 9060 – certified by a Notary Public, a bank, or a German Foreign Mission)

Please note that the specific documentation and requirements may vary depending on your previous tax class, your marital status, the countries you have lived in, the number of children, and more. 

This is where our service comes in highly recommended. We offer English customer support and legal assistance, taking charge of all inquiries and managing the entire process on your behalf. 

Our experienced team is well-versed in the intricacies, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. While timelines may vary based on individual circumstances and external factors, we strive to provide accurate information to guide you. 

Entrust your claim to us, and you can confidently navigate the complexities, knowing we are dedicated to streamlining the process and achieving the best possible outcome. Simplify your refund process today by contacting us for professional assistance at every step.

How should I provide the necessary documentation?

When providing the necessary documentation for a pension contribution refund, following the guidelines and instructions of the German pension fund is essential. Here are some general tips on how to provide the documentation:

Format: Check the preferred form for submitting the documents. Submitting them in a specific file format (such as PDF) or as hard copies by mail may be requested.

Completeness: Ensure that all required documents are included. 

Organization: Arrange the documents in a logical order. You can use separate folders or sections to keep them organized and easy to navigate.

Copies: Make copies of all the documents you submit for your records. This can serve as a backup and reference in case any issues arise.

Certification or Notarization: If any documents require certification, notarization, or other specific authentication, follow the instructions. It may involve visiting a Notary Public, a bank, or a German Foreign Mission for certification purposes.

Translation: If your documents are not in the language required by the German pension fund (German), they may need to be translated. Ensure that translations are accurate and done by a certified translator if necessary.

Submission Method: Confirm the preferred method of submission. It could be by mail, fax, or in person. Follow the specified instructions to ensure your documents reach the correct destination.

Deadlines: Be mindful of any deadlines for document submission. Ensure to allow enough time to gather and submit the required documents within the given timeframe.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the specific instructions for providing documentation may vary depending on your previous tax class, marital status, the countries you have lived in, the number of children, and more. 

We recommend using our service to claim mandatory contributions to the German pension fund, especially for non-EU citizens. The process can be lengthy and complex and must be completed in German, as all documents are also in German.

By choosing to work with us, you benefit from our English customer service and legal assistance. We handle all inquiries on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. Our team is well-versed in the intricacies of the refund process, relieving you of the burden of navigating through it alone.

While we strive to provide accurate timelines, it’s important to note that these are approximate and subject to variation based on the specific circumstances of your case and the external factors involved.

By entrusting your claim to our service, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the German pension refund process, knowing that our dedicated team is working diligently on your behalf. We are here to streamline the procedure, providing you with a hassle-free experience and the best possible outcome.

Can I claim back contributions if I left Germany several years ago?

Yes, you can still claim back your contributions to the German pension fund even if you left Germany several years ago. The eligibility criteria for claiming back contributions typically include meeting specific requirements, such as being a non-EU citizen, residing in a non-contracting state, and having a particular waiting period since your last contribution (usually 24 months).

The time that has passed since you left Germany does not necessarily disqualify you from claiming back your contributions. You can proceed with the claim if you meet the eligibility criteria and fulfill the necessary requirements.

It’s important to note that the specific details and processes for claiming back contributions may vary depending on your employment type, the number of children, or the country involved. 

If you are a non-EU citizen looking to claim mandatory contributions to the German pension fund back, the process can be complex and time-consuming. 

All documents are in German, adding to the challenge. That’s why we highly recommend our service. With English customer support and legal assistance, we take care of all inquiries and handle the entire process for you. 

Our experienced team is well-versed in the intricacies, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. While timelines may vary based on individual circumstances and external factors, we strive to provide accurate information. 

By entrusting your claim to us, you can confidently navigate the complexities, knowing that we are dedicated to streamlining the process and achieving the best possible outcome. Contact us today to simplify your refund process and receive professional assistance every step of the way.

Best Reasons To Choose Our Services

We understand the complex and ever-changing regulations governing the German pension system and have the expertise to navigate the process on your behalf. Our team of friendly and competent experts is here to help you every step of the way!

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Calculate Your Pension Refund

Our online calculator makes it easy to estimate your potential refund amount.

Simply enter your details and the time you worked in Germany, and our tool will provide an estimate of your refund. It’s quick, easy, and free!

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