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Apply for SED victim pension

If you were wrongfully imprisoned as a result of the SED dictatorship in the former GDR, you can apply for financial support. Further information is available here.

Detailed description

The SED Victims' Pension is financial assistance for people who were unjustly punished and imprisoned by the government of the Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED) in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR, East Germany).



If you wish to receive this benefit, you must submit an application to the relevant authority.



The SED victim's pension is currently EUR 400.00 per month (as of July 2025) and will be adjusted annually starting in 2026 according to the percentage by which the current pension value in the statutory pension insurance system changes. The SED victim's pension is granted regardless of income.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • They were in political detention in the former GDR for at least 90 days.
  • You have been rehabilitated under criminal law or you have a certificate in accordance with Section 10 Paragraph 4 of the Prisoner Assistance Act.
  • There are no grounds for exclusion.

Documents required

  • Copy of your identity card
  • Certificate according to Section 10 Paragraph 4 of the Prisoner Assistance Act
  • Rehabilitation decision

Please note

Informal applications from beneficiaries are already being accepted.

Deadlines

No

Procedure

  • You send your informal, written application to the responsible authority by mail. A personal appearance is not required.
  • The responsible authority will review your application and request the necessary documents from you.
  • The responsible authority will inform you of the decision on your application in writing.

Processing time



Processing usually takes several weeks.

Fees

No

Legal remedies

Contradiction

Legal basis

Section 17a Criminal Rehabilitation Act (StrRehaG)





Section 10 paragraph 4 of the Prisoner Assistance Act (HHG)


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Keywords: Victim pension for former political prisoners of the GDR regime Rehabilitation of SED victims displaced persons

Last updated: 07.09.2025