As autumn arrives, countless pensioners across Spain begin the same ritual: calculating how much their pension might rise in the coming year. Though the official confirmation won’t come until late November—or more precisely, mid-December—early projections already hint at a modest yet meaningful adjustment.
The average inflation (IPC) from December 2024 to November 2025 will determine the revaluation of pensions. Current data places inflation at around 2.5%, with forecasts from Funcas suggesting a year-end rate close to 2.7%. This would mean a slight decrease compared to the 2.8% rise seen last year—but still a positive step toward maintaining purchasing power.
However, as always, not every pension follows the same path. The Spanish Social Security currently manages over 10.6 million pensions, distributed among 9.3 million beneficiaries—some of whom receive more than one payment. The average pension now stands at €1,314 per month, paid over fourteen installments per year. Yet the amount varies depending on each worker’s contribution history and the nature of their employment.
Beyond the Numbers: The Human Side of Pension Variations
Not all retirees are the same, and their pensions reflect that. Different Social Security schemes—General Regime, RETA (self-employed), Mining and Maritime, work-related accident schemes, and the older SOVI system—each carry unique benefits and limits.
For example, pensioners under the Mining Regime can receive up to €2,907 per month, while those covered by the SOVI system, which predates modern democracy, may only get €502 per month. These differences highlight why the government has introduced various complementary measures to reduce income gaps among retirees.
Some of these measures include supplements for low-income pensions and support for those who didn’t meet the minimum contribution period. The current administration, led by Pedro Sánchez, has pledged to continue prioritizing lower-income pensioners, aiming to make the system more equitable.
And that’s where the real story unfolds—the increases that go beyond inflation.
The Groups Who Will Receive Increases Above the Average
While most pensions will align with the inflation rate (around 2.7%), certain categories will experience significantly higher increases, reaching as much as 9% in 2026.
Here’s who stands to benefit the most:
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Minimum Contribution Supplements (6%) – These ensure all pensioners receive at least the government-defined minimum amount. This year’s increase surpassed the general inflation rate, reaching 6%.
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Gender Gap Supplement (7.8%) – Designed for those, mostly women, who took time off work for child care. Their benefits rose by 7.8%.
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Non-Contributory Pensions (9%) – For those who didn’t meet the minimum years of contribution. Their increase matches the highest level: 9%.
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Minimum Vital Income (IMV) (9%) – Although not technically a pension, this benefit also grew by 9%, supporting low-income households.
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Widows with Dependents (9.1%) – Largely affecting women, this category saw an average rise of over 9%, thanks to family-related supplements.
These increases are not merely numbers on a page—they represent a lifeline for many individuals who rely solely on their pensions to live with dignity.
Who Benefits Most: Behind the Statistics
To understand the full picture, it’s essential to look at the beneficiaries. In September 2025:
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2.12 million pensions received minimum supplements. The minimum annual pension for retirees aged 65 and over stands at €12,241.60, or €15,786.40 for those with dependent spouses.
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1.14 million pensions benefited from the gender gap supplement, which adds around €35.90 per month to the payment.
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462,822 non-contributory pensions were granted, with an annual amount of €7,905.80 for both retirement and disability cases.
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764,905 households received the Minimum Vital Income, covering over 2.3 million individuals, with an average monthly payment of €516.78.
Each statistic tells a story—a story of someone’s parents, grandparents, or neighbors who depend on this stability. These adjustments ensure that even those with fewer contributions or career interruptions due to family duties are not left behind.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Fairer Pensions
While the forecasted 2.7% inflation rate will guide most pension adjustments, the 9% increase for certain groups is a signal of deeper reform—one focused on equity rather than equality. The government’s policy recognizes that those with lower pensions need proportionally higher increases to live decently.
This shift toward fairness may well redefine the spirit of the Spanish pension system. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about acknowledging the years of hard work, sacrifice, and contribution that built today’s economy.
If you are a retiree or planning for your pension, this is the moment to stay informed, review your eligibility, and ensure your rights are protected. Understanding where you stand could help you make better decisions—and secure a more comfortable tomorrow.
Because, in the end, pensions aren’t merely payments.
They are a reflection of dignity, effort, and justice—and this upcoming 9% increase is a small but significant step in that direction.