The number of pensioners in Bulgaria has decreased by 133 thousand people over a 10-year period, while pension costs have increased dramatically from 8.4 billion leva to 21.6 billion leva. This is shown by the statistical data of the National Social Security Institute for the period 2015-2024, BTA reported.
Over the same period, the costs paid for benefits for pregnancy and childbirth, as well as those for caring for a child up to the age of 2, have doubled. Statistics report an increase in the average social security income for the country from 726 leva to 1,655 leva.
Income from social security contributions has grown from 4.8 billion leva to 12.8 billion leva over the ten-year period. At the same time, transfers from the state budget, which cover the shortage of funds for pensions and benefits, jumped from 5 billion leva to 11.5 billion leva.
The average pension has increased almost threefold - from 331 leva to almost 890 leva. The minimum pension for seniority and old age has increased significantly from 156 leva to 551 leva.
In proportion to the gross domestic product, the expenses of the State Social Security have increased from 10.9 percent to 12.1 percent.
In 2015 There were 79 pensioners per 100 insured persons, and last year the ratio was 100 to 72. This indicates an improvement in the demographic burden of the pension system.
The average period of receiving a third category pension for women was 27 years and 1 month and is increasing to 27 years and 5 months. For men, however, the average pension was received for 22 years and 6 months 10 years ago, decreasing to 20 years and 4 months in 2024.
Source: www.dunavmost.com