How to Claim Your Greek Pension from the U.S.: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
Understanding Greek Pension Rights for Greek-Americans
Many Greek expatriates living in the U.S. have worked in Greece and contributed to EFKA (Unified Social Security Fund, formerly IKA, OAEE, OGA, etc.), making them eligible for a Greek pension. However, navigating the Greek pension system from abroad can be complicated due to bureaucratic procedures, eligibility requirements, and the need for document validation.
At E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC, we specialize in helping Greek Americans claim their pensions without the need to travel to Greece. We ensure full compliance with Greek pension laws, the U.S.-Greece Totalization Agreement, and all relevant regulations governing retirement benefits.
Our Services Include:
✔ Legal assessment of pension eligibility based on Greek law.
✔ Full management of pension applications and appeals.
✔ Assistance with EFKA (main pension) and auxiliary pensions (Επικουρικό Ταμείο).
✔ Remote processing of applications and document verification.
✔ Guidance on pension taxation and international payments.
1. Who Qualifies for a Greek Pension?
The Greek pension system requires individuals to have made social security contributions in Greece. Greek-Americans may be eligible if they:
✔ Worked and contributed to EFKA or its predecessor funds (IKA, OAEE, OGA, etc.).
✔ Have combined contributions from Greece and the U.S. under the Totalization Agreement.
✔ Are entitled to a survivor’s pension from a deceased spouse or parent.
✔ Need to purchase additional insurance years to qualify for a pension.
Not sure if you qualify? Contact us for a detailed case review.
2. How to Claim Your Greek Pension from the U.S.
A. Gathering Required Documents
To apply for a pension in Greece, you must submit:
✔ Greek social security records (Βεβαίωση Ασφαλιστικής Ιστορίας) from EFKA.
✔ Work history records from both Greece and the U.S.
✔ Birth certificate (Greek or translated U.S. certificate).
✔ Marriage certificate (if applying for a spousal pension).
✔ Greek tax number (AFM) and Social Security Number (AMKA).
✔ U.S. and Greek tax returns (for pension taxation purposes).
✔ Official Power of Attorney (POA) for legal representation in Greece.
B. Submitting a Pension Application
Pension claims in Greece are submitted to EFKA or the respective social security fund. The application process includes:
1️⃣ Filing the claim with EFKA (electronically or in person via legal representation).
2️⃣ Requesting recognition of U.S. work periods under the Totalization Agreement.
3️⃣ Verifying eligibility for main and supplementary pensions.
C. Handling Pension Delays & Denials
✔ If your application is delayed, we handle all follow-ups with Greek authorities.
✔ If your claim is denied, we file an appeal through the appropriate legal channels.
✔ If your insurance record is incomplete, we assist with buying additional years of service.
D. Receiving Your Pension Payments
✔ Set up direct deposit into a Greek or U.S. bank account.
✔ Arrange for tax compliance for pension payments received abroad.
✔ Request retroactive payments if eligible.
3. Pension Types Available Under Greek Law
Greek pensions are categorized based on insurance contributions, employment type, and eligibility criteria. The main pension types include:
1️⃣ Main Old-Age Pension (Κύρια Σύνταξη) – Issued by EFKA based on total contributions.
2️⃣ Supplementary Pension (Επικουρική Σύνταξη) – Provided by Auxiliary Pension Funds.
3️⃣ Disability Pension (Αναπηρική Σύνταξη) – Available for those unable to work due to health conditions.
4️⃣ Survivor’s Pension (Σύνταξη Χηρείας) – For widows, widowers, and dependent children.
5️⃣ Pension Buyback (Αναγνώριση Χρόνων Ασφάλισης) – Allows individuals to purchase missing insurance years.
Each pension type has different age requirements, contribution thresholds, and legal regulations governing payments.
???? Our legal team ensures you receive the maximum pension benefits based on your situation.
4. The U.S.-Greece Totalization Agreement: How It Affects Your Pension
The U.S.-Greece Totalization Agreement prevents individuals from losing pension benefits if they have worked in both countries. This agreement allows:
✔ The combination of insurance periods from Greece and the U.S. to qualify for a pension.
✔ Greek pension payments to U.S. residents without double taxation (under specific tax treaties).
✔ Greek pensioners to continue receiving their pension while residing in the U.S.
5. Taxation of Greek Pensions for U.S. Residents
Greek pensions are subject to taxation both in Greece and the U.S. However, under the U.S.-Greece Tax Treaty, Greek-Americans may be eligible for:
✔ Tax credits to avoid double taxation.
✔ Lower tax rates if residing in the U.S.
✔ Exemptions for certain pension types.
We assist clients in ensuring full tax compliance for pension income received abroad.
6. Why Choose E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC?
✔ Expertise in Greek Pension Law – We specialize in international pension claims.
✔ Remote Legal Assistance – No need to travel; we handle everything online.
✔ Bilingual Legal Support – We provide Greek-language assistance for smooth communication.
✔ Comprehensive Case Review – We ensure you maximize your pension benefits.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to process a Greek pension claim?
Processing times vary, but EFKA applications typically take 6-12 months.
Can I receive both a U.S. and Greek pension?
Yes, under the Totalization Agreement, you may receive pensions from both countries.
Can I apply for a Greek pension without traveling to Greece?
Yes! We handle all paperwork remotely via Power of Attorney (POA).
What happens if my pension claim is denied?
We file legal appeals and challenge wrongful denials on your behalf.
8. Contact Us for Expert Legal Assistance
Email: info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
Call us in the U.S.: +13474034789
Serving Greek expats worldwide—handling cases across Greece & Cyprus
Schedule an Online Consultation Today! Let us help you secure your Greek pension without unnecessary delays.