A recent INPS report shows that there is a marked gap in early pensions between men and women in Italy. Men receive an average early pension of 400 euros higher than women, with a difference of about 37%. Here is a detailed analysis of the data, the reasons behind the disparity and a guide on how early pensions work in the Italian pension system
.
Early Retirement Data: Differences Between Men and Women
According to the INPS, as of December 31, 2023, men who benefit from early pensions have an average monthly allowance of 1,442 euros, while women stop at 1,048 euros. This means that, although women make up 52% of the total number of retirees, men receive 56% of the total pension income, with an average of about 35% more in favor of
men.
- Average annual amount: 24,671 euros for men, 18,291 euros for women.
- Factors of the gap: The disparity can be attributed to various causes, including women’s careers that are more often interrupted, lower salaries and shorter average contribution years, which penalize women when calculating their pension.
Early Pensions: Disparity Factors
- Interrupted careers: Women tend to have less linear work careers due to, for example, periods of inactivity for family reasons.
- Types of retirement: Many women opt for retirement through the Women’s Option, which allows them to access their pension early, but with the contribution calculation that leads to a reduction in the allowance.
- Wage differences: Wage disparities also contribute to the difference in the amount of pensions, as women’s lower average salaries are reflected in lower pension contributions.
Guide to Early Pensions in Italy
Early
pensions allow you to access retirement before reaching the ordinary age set by the old-age pension. In 2024, the main options for early retirement
are:
- Fee 103: Accessible with at least 62 years of age and 41 years of contributions.
- Social APE: An allowance paid until an old age pension is reached for workers with at least 63 years of age under specific conditions (e.g. the unemployed, caregivers).
- Women’s option: It allows female workers to retire with the contribution calculation, available to women who meet certain personal and contribution requirements.
Future Perspectives and Pension Reform 2025
In 2025, some pension benefits are expected to be maintained, such as the Social APE until 2028 and Quota 103. Confirmations are expected on increases in minimum pensions and on any changes to the Women’s Option, which could favor a reduction
in the economic gender gap.