INPS Announces Early Pension Option for Homemakers: Age 57 with Limited Contributions
Rome, Italy – The Italian National Social Security Institute (INPS) has confirmed a pathway to early retirement for homemakers who have contributed to the Voluntary Provident Fund for Housewives and Homemakers, potentially allowing them to retire as early as age 57 with just five years of contributions. The declaration,reported by donnaclick.it,offers a crucial pension option for a demographic historically excluded from customary social security benefits.
For decades, individuals primarily engaged in domestic work have lacked the employment protections afforded to formal workers – including pay slips, 13th-month salary, severance pay, and standard pension contributions.While discussions around a dedicated “housewives bonus” have surfaced, no official program exists. Current support measures include the Social Allowance for those over 67 with low incomes and the Inclusion allowance for vulnerable families.
Though, the INPS is now leveraging a fund established in 1996 to provide a retirement avenue through the Voluntary Provident Fund. This fund allows homemakers to make small, regular contributions throughout the year, building a pension reserve.
Eligibility requires joining the Voluntary Provident Fund and accumulating approximately €300 in annual contributions. This allows access to an old-age pension starting at age 57, even with a minimal contribution history.
Currently,this voluntary fund represents the sole social security option available to those without formal employment engaged in full-time domestic work. Advocates continue to push for broader recognition and more thorough support for this often-overlooked segment of the Italian population.
