Infographics. Minimum old-age pension in Lorraine: half of those who could receive it do not apply.

Repaying the assistance received by a deceased relative? This is the situation facing many heirs when the deceased's assets, after deducting personal debts, outstanding charges, and funeral expenses, exceed €107,616 and they receive the elderly allowance (ASPA). Except that currently, the value of the primary residence is included in the calculation. But this rule could change with a bill tabled by MP Émeline K/Bidi (Democratic and Republican Left). She particularly wants to remove this primary residence from the calculation.

But between this fear of inheritance, the lack of information, and complex procedures, many potential ASPA beneficiaries do not take advantage of it. According to the latest estimates from the Directorate of Research, Studies, Evaluation, and Statistics (DREES), this concerns one in two single people. For expected amounts less than €100 per month, this non-take-up rate rises to 77%.

But then, who actually receives this aid in Lorraine?

According to the latest available data, more than 18,000 Lorrainers received the ASPA or the supplementary old-age allowance (ASV) in 2023, representing 3.1% of the population aged 62 and over. This rate rises to 3.5% in Meurthe-et-Moselle and 3.2% in Meuse. These proportions are lower than the national average of 4.2%.

Across France, the DREES estimates that an ASV recipient receives an average of €440 per month and €500 for Aspa.

But what is their profile? "At the end of 2022, minimum old-age pension recipients were 73.7 years old on average," according to a DREES report on retirees. In Lorraine, single people are overrepresented (7 out of 10 beneficiaries). Women also account for 59% of recipients, compared to 56% nationally.

Beneficiaries of this minimum old-age pension receive low pension amounts, particularly due to short careers marked by disability or incapacity for work.