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Pope Benedict will receive the a papal pension of €2,500-a-month. The pension is 50 per cent less than that awarded to a retired cardinal.
The pope’s pension is almost identical to the maximum Social Security benefit a U.S. retiree could earn if they retired this year.
To receive a check that size in the USA, a retiree would need to retire at age 70 or later, and have earned earned the taxable maximum salary throughout her career—the equivalent of US$113,700 this year.
The monthly New Zealand universal superannuation payment for a single person is equivalently €950 per month. All pensioners also receive the Super Gold Card. Some receive housing, living and assisted living costs.
On retirement, Benedict will take with him only personal effects and gifts, his piano, his cats and private letters. Everything else – including books, furniture, and documents – will remain in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican.
For over 60 years Benedict has effectively worked for the Church, the last eight as it’s global CEO. Most of Benedict’s personal expenses, including accommodation, food and gardening, will be covered by the Vatican for the rest of his life.
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