The French have been facing inflation for several years now. And the least we can say is that this rise in prices has not spared retirees either. In 2025, the latter will also do facing another piece of bad news.
Retirees in great difficulty
The situation is very difficult for the French. And retirees also have a hard time making ends meet at this time of year. Between inflation, property taxes, taxes and the arrival of Christmas, their budget is under pressure.
Unfortunately, things are clearly not expected to get better for the year 2025. Indeed, the reform in the Social Security Financing Bill (PLFSS) for next year raises many concerns.
Because of an increase in pensions deemed insufficient and a potential drop in healthcare reimbursements, some retirees are clearly worried about their budget. As a reminder, the government has decided not to freeze the increase in pensions.
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These will indeed increase from January 1, 2025. On the other hand, retirees will have to face a significant change. It will be in two stages: a first increase of 0.8% will take place from the start of the year.
While the second will take place by 0.8% on July 1. Thus, it will increase by 1.6%. This measure mainly concerns pensions below 1,500 euros gross per month. The objective remains to protect the purchasing power of retirees.
On the other hand, many people criticize this revaluation. Several associations for the defense of seniors and opposition parties believe that this increase remains well below expected inflation. The latter could reach 2.5% over the year.
A terrible worry
This increase will not remain sufficient for retirees to cope with the rising cost of living. Some people are also concerned about certain rumors. They suggest that a 5% drop in reimbursements by Social Security for medical consultations and certain medications will take place.
This measure would aim to reduce public spending. On the other hand, it could have a terrible impact on retirees. For many seniors, this reduction in reimbursements would mean an increase in their remaining health costs.
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These additional costs could encourage some seniors not to consult their doctor. Or not getting the treatments they need. The associations are very afraid that this will cause a worsening of inequalities in access to care.
And this, particularly between healthy retirees and those needing expensive or chronic treatments. To pass this reform, the government plans to use article 49.3 of the Constitution.
This decision, if it sees the light of day, risks fueling tensions within the National Assembly and exposing the government to a motion of censure. It remains to be seen whether it will pass. So to be continued.
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