Since 1990 this comprehensive social security system has also benefited pensioners, war victims and disabled persons in the former GDR. The Treaty Establishing a Monetary, Economic and Social Union and the Unification Treaty signed in that year provided that all citizens in united Germany should have the same benefits after a transitional period.

In 1995 the scope of the social security system was increased to include long-term care insurance, which helps cover the cost of long-term care provided either at home or in institutions.