Summary The paper presents a numerical general equilibrium model in which agents decide about their retirement age. In this context policy reforms like an increase of the normal retirement age, higher discounts for early retirement or the introduction of flat or minimum pensions are simulated....

Summary Expenditure of the German statutory health insurance scheme will increase significantly in the future. In order to keep the system financially sound, current law plans to levy income independent surcharges. These will be complemented by a tax-financed social compensation scheme. In this...

Summary This paper examines the distributional and efficiency effects of pension privatization in Germany. Starting from a benchmark that reflects the current unfunded pension system, a fully funded system is introduced. The accrued benefits of the old system are financed by alternative tax...