Christian, retired for several years, counts every euro for make ends meet. He wonders: at what amount do we consider ourselves to receive a small pension?
The numbers vary, but there is no real official threshold to define it. Some speak of a monthly amount less than 1,000 euros. Is it possible to live with so little? “I have to give up leisure activities,” he confides to us.
A threshold set at 1,352 euros for a single person
When someone talks about having a modest retirement, it can be interesting to understand what level of income this corresponds to. In France, the poverty threshold is set at 1,352 euros per month for a single person. This monthly amount serves as a reference to identify precarious financial situations among retirees. Living below this threshold often means facing difficulties in meeting basic daily needs.
Many retirees receive a pension less than this amount, which constitutes what is known as a little retreat or a low pension. This situation particularly concerns those who have had incomplete careers, periods of unemployment or part-time jobs. For example, a retiree who has worked all his life with a modest income may find himself with an insufficient pension to maintain his previous standard of living.
Mechanisms to support retirees with low pensions
Faced with these financial challenges, several measures have been put in place to offer a support for retirees with limited resources. Organizations such as pension funds offer services intended to improve the quality of life of seniors. These structures can offer advice on budget management or direct you towards specific aid.
Furthermore, financial aid exist to supplement the income of the most modest retirees. L'solidarity allowance for the elderly (ASPA), for example, is a service that guarantees a minimum of resources. These schemes aim to provide financial dignity to elderly people, allowing them to cover their essential expenses such as food, housing or health.
The minimum contribution, automatic aid under conditions
The minimum contribution is a mechanism which allows retirees who have contributed during their professional life to benefit from a minimum pension. Managed by the Social securitythis device is automatically assigned to people meeting certain eligibility conditions. It concerns in particular policyholders who have reached legal retirement age and have the number of quarters required for a full-rate pension.
To be eligible for the contributory minimum, the total amount of retirement pensions must not exceed a certain ceiling. Since November 1, 2024, this ceiling has been set at 1,394.86 euros per month. Thus, the retirees concerned see their pension increased until they reach this minimum, thus ensuring better financial security. This device represents a form of solidarity towards those who have contributed throughout their career but still receive a modest pension.
