Professor Dr. Cem Kılıç evaluated the most curious topics related to work life and social security. Kılıç touched upon critical issues such as salary adjustments for public workers, retirement pensions, unemployment benefits, overtime payments, and retirement under the EYT scope. The retirement arrangement for insured individuals after October 1, 2008 remains unchanged. Misconceptions regarding overtime payments and work durations were clarified. The reasons why the pensions of those retiring in 2024 are calculated lower were explained.

– At what stage is the pay raise process for public workers? Approximately 1 million public workers are awaiting the announcement of pay raise rates under the collective agreement. As of now, a definite percentage has not been disclosed. The pay raise rate will be determined based on the public framework protocol. Turkish-İş and Hak-İş unions are engaging in negotiations with the government. The process will accelerate by the middle of March, with the pay raise rate expected to be finalized in April. The pay raise amount will be determined considering the latest inflation data.

– Can retirement bonuses be updated?

One of the most inquired topics before the holiday was whether the bonuses for retirees would be increased. The Minister of Labor and Social Security, the Ministry of Finance, and the Vice President announced that discussions are ongoing. However, there is no confirmed figure yet. Depending on economic conditions, a decision will be made on whether there will be an increase in bonuses.

– Are there any retirement restrictions for insured individuals after October 1, 2008?

Recent rumors on social media suggested that those insured after October 1, 2008, cannot work after retiring and their pensions will be cut. This claim is not accurate, but a misconception has arisen. Individuals insured after October 1, 2008, cannot work by paying social security contribution premiums once they retire. However, there is no situation where their current pension will be discontinued. This regulation has been in effect for 15 years and is not a new development. An increase in the number of individuals affected by this law is expected around 2030.

– For how many hours can overtime payments be made daily?

The weekly working hours are 45. Overtime is calculated based on hours exceeding this limit. The maximum daily working hours can be 11. The yearly overtime hours cannot exceed 270. If working hours exceed 11, the worker may earn the right to termination compensation.

– When will a woman with an insurance entry in 2004 retire?

A policyholder asked when she would retire, as she had an insurance entry in June 2004, possessed 3762 premium days, and was inquired about her retirement age. For women with insurance entries after 2000, 7,000 premium days and being 58 years old are necessary criteria. Currently, she needs to pay an additional 3,238 days. Alternatively, she can retire at the age of 58 by paying 4500 days of premiums and having a 25-year insurance period. If she completes the 4500 days and stops paying premiums, she can retire in 2029.

– What are the eligibility requirements for receiving unemployment benefits?

A policyholder asked if she could receive unemployment benefits if she quits her job voluntarily. To be eligible for unemployment benefits, one must have been terminated by the employer. Those who resign voluntarily cannot receive unemployment benefits unless with a justifiable reason. Individuals who have paid a minimum of 600 days of premiums in the last 3 years can receive 6 months of unemployment benefits, while those who paid 900 days can receive 8 months, and those with 1080 days can receive 10 months of benefits. Health insurance is covered during the unemployment benefit period.

– Are the pensions of those retiring in 2024 lower?

Lately, individuals applying for retirement noticed that the pensions granted in 2024 were lower. Compared to 2023, those started retired in 2024 face around a 30% decrease in pension payments. This difference stems from changes in inflation rates and the pension calculation system. Those retiring this year will have their pensions calculated lower.

– When will a person with an insurance entry in 1998 retire under the EYT scope?

A policyholder, who became insured on October 10, 1998, inquired about their eligibility to retire under the EYT. Individuals with insurance entries in 1998 can fall under the EYT scope. For male policyholders, 5,900 premium days and a 25-year insurance period are required. If the criteria are met, they can immediately retire.