Title: Iran Implements Landmark Pension Reforms, Enhancing Flexibility and Inclusivity
In a significant move to modernize its social security framework, Iran has enacted a new pension law, introducing key reforms designed to create a more flexible and inclusive retirement system. These changes, developed by the Social Security Organization, are aligned with the nation’s Seventh Development Plan and aim to adapt the pension structure to contemporary economic conditions.
Broadening Pension Eligibility
A cornerstone of the new legislation is the extension of pension eligibility to individuals with less than 15 years of insurance history. This pivotal change is intended to facilitate retirement for a wider segment of the population and synchronize the insurance system with the country’s evolving economic landscape. Eligibility will be determined through precise calculations of insurance premiums and verification of legal criteria.
Key Pillars of the New Pension Law
The reformed system is built upon three fundamental principles:
- Inclusion for Shorter Tenures: Individuals with insurance records of under 15 years can now qualify for pension benefits.
- Full-Benefit Standard Unchanged: The benchmark for a full, unreduced pension remains 35 years of premium payments, ensuring benefit stability for long-term contributors.
- Protection for Long-Serving Insureds: Those with over 28 years of service will see no changes to their pension calculations, safeguarding their expected benefits.
Calculating Service Credit Increases
To assist those who need to bridge gaps in their service record, a structured system for increasing insurance years has been established. The reference date for these calculations is set at 03/05/1403 (in the Persian calendar). The following table outlines the credit increases:
| Insurance Payment Record | Increase in Service Credit per Year Shortfall |
|---|---|
| Over 28 years | No change (processed as before) |
| 25 to 28 years | 2 months |
| 20 to 25 years | 3 months |
| 15 to 20 years | 4 months |
Strengthening System Integrity and Accessibility
The reforms also emphasize transparency and ease of access. Individual insurance records are meticulously calculated based on employer-submitted data, as per Article 4 of the Social Security Law, and are subject to field inspections for verification.
To empower citizens, the Social Security Organization has enhanced its digital services. Insured individuals can review their records, check for discrepancies, and file appeals online through the official portal at www.es.tamin.ir.
Furthermore, starting in the upcoming Persian year (1403), subscribers will receive monthly SMS updates detailing their insured days, base salary, and job title, enabling them to promptly correct any inaccuracies.
These comprehensive reforms mark a progressive step in Iran’s social policy, delivering greater flexibility, promoting insurance equity, and leveraging technology to streamline the path to retirement for all citizens.