Information about the German health insurance system
How does the German social security system work?
The German social insurance system offers comprehensive protection. It is there to help you in the event of unexpected situations such as unemployment, accident, or illness. It is based on the so-called solidarity principle. This means that every insuree contributes to the funding of the social insurance system depending on his or her (financial) capacity. Yet everyone insured receives the same benefits.
What is health insurance and why do I need it?
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. This ensures that everyone gets the care they need if they fall ill. However, you have the freedom to choose your health insurance provider. As an employee, your employer will register you with your chosen provider when you start work. Your employer also calculates the amounts payable for health, long-term care, pension and unemployment insurance. Furthermore, it deducts the employee’s contribution from your salary, adds it to the employer's contribution and makes the payment.
Good to know: Around 90% of German residents have public health insurance.
In Germany, there is a distinction between statutory and private health insurance. If you earn up to 69,300 EUR per year, you can only choose public health insurance. If you earn more than 69,300 EUR per year, you can choose between public or private health insurance.
Benefits of public health insurance
More details on what your health insurance with TK cover.
There for you!
Do you have questions regarding your health insurance? Our TK-ServiceTeam is on hand to help you at +49 40 - 46 06 62 53 00.