Maximum rate

This article concerns premiums in the German public health system, which are calculated based on income. In the private health insurance system, premiums are contractually agreed based on risk and coverage.

The maximum rate is the maximum amount that can be charged for public health insurance premiums


Public health insurance (GKV) premiums are calculated as a percentage of an individual’s income up to the premium assessment ceiling – currently set at €62,100 per year. However, this is not related to the treshold. The current contribution rate is 14.6% plus an average provider surcharge of 1.70%.

The maximum rate for public health insurance lies therefore at 1,050.53 per month. These figures include the provider surcharge which is 1.70% and the long-term nursing-care contribution.

The maximum rate for public health insurance has risen by 46 percent in the last 10 years. Since 2010 even by 64 percent!

maximum rate from 2010-2024 Maximum rate of public health insurance from 2010-2024

The contribution rates and the premium assessment ceiling are widely expected to rise again drastically in the future, due in part to the impact of the cost of caring for a rapidly aging population.

These sharp rises are particularly significant for self-employed people, who have to cover the full cost of health insurance themselves – unlike employees, who can have up to 50% of their premiums covered by their employer.

FAQ

The initial online enrollment is in German due to legal requirements. However, we are doing this together on the phone and we will of course help you through step by step. So no worries!

The payment is different than in the public system. With private health insurance you pay the full tariff to us at the beginning of the month. If you are employed your employer will contribute their part to your health insurance through your salary.

After your policy is finalized it will not be adjusted again based on the variables of aging, increases in health care needs or increases in salary.

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