Buying back quarters for their years of study or incomplete years appeals to many workers looking to retire earlier or avoid a haircut. This option makes it possible to improve the pension rate or to reach the insurance period required for the full rate more quickly. But its cost, 1,000 to 7,000 euros per quarter depending on age, income and the option chosen, requires a rigorous analysis.
The key lies in calculating the amortization time : after how many years does the pension supplement compensate for the cost of the buyout? For certain profiles, profitability is reached quickly; for others, it proves too distant to justify the investment. “ This is why it is essential to analyze your personal situation, your objectives and possible alternatives », recalls Valérie Batigne, president of Sapiendo.
Why does profitability vary so much?
The price of a quarter depends on three parameters: age, income and the option chosen (purchase of the rate alone or rate + duration). The older we get, the more the price increases. The “rate only” option is certainly cheaper, but do not speed up the departure : it only reduces the discount. The more expensive complete option allows for early departure. Profitability therefore depends on the difference in pension obtained, the time of departure and the expected duration of receipt of the pension.
Alternatives when repurchase is not interesting
In some cases, such as an already almost complete career, high cost or low pension earnings, the buyout proves to be of little relevance. Other levers can then be more effective: progressive retirement, to lighten the end of one’s career while continuing to acquire rights, or combining employment and retirement, to increase one’s income and validate new quarters. Or even move towards investments. Contacting a specialist allows you to better understand all these parameters: “ Our role is precisely to provide this clear and objective vision, so that everyone can make an informed choice, truly adapted to their trajectory and life projects. », underlines Valérie Batigne.
