Starting next August 28, retirees will be able to combine their pension with income as self-employed workers, collecting 25% of their benefit. This measure, included in Royal Decree 416/2026 and published in the Official State Gazette (BOE), aims to facilitate a more gradual transition towards definitive retirement.

The reform extends flexible retirement to self-employed workers, an option previously reserved for part-time employees. This will enable thousands of pensioners to engage in economic activity without completely giving up their benefit.

Pensioners will be able to start self-employment and receive 25% of their pension. The goal is for those who decide to start or set up a business to supplement their income while maintaining the protection of the public system.

To access this modality, beneficiaries must not have been registered as self-employed in the three years prior to retirement. The rule is designed for pensioners returning to the labor market after a period of inactivity.

Contributions made during this flexible retirement period are not lost. Upon definitively ceasing activity, Social Security will recalculate the benefit, potentially resulting in a higher final amount than initially received.

The Executive is thus adapting the system to a reality where many retirees wish to continue developing professional projects and generating additional income, passing on their experience without renouncing public pension protection.