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ΕλληνικάLong-term Care Insurance — What You Need to Know About Care in Germany
Status: March 2026. All information without warranty.
What is Long-term Care Insurance?
Long-term Care Insurance (Pflegeversicherung) is the fifth pillar of social insurance. It helps when you or a family member becomes in need of care — meaning you permanently require assistance with daily activities.
Contribution Rates 2026
| Situation | Contribution Rate |
|---|---|
| With children | 3.6 % |
| Childless (from age 23) | 4.2 % |
| From 2nd child under 25 | -0.25 % per child (min. 2.4 %) |
Employees pay half, employers pay the other half (exception: childless surcharge is paid by employee alone).
Care Levels (Pflegegrad)
| Level | Impairment | Care Allowance (at home) | Benefits in Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minimal | € 0 | Consultation + subsidies |
| 2 | Substantial | € 332/month | € 761/month |
| 3 | Severe | € 573/month | € 1,432/month |
| 4 | Very severe | € 765/month | € 1,778/month |
| 5 | Very severe + special requirements | € 947/month | € 2,200/month |
How Do You Apply for a Pflegegrad?
- Application to your care insurance fund (= your health insurance)
- Assessment by the MDK (Medical Service) — home visit
- MDK evaluates 6 areas: mobility, cognitive abilities, personal care, etc.
- Notice from your care insurance (Pflegegrad 1–5 or rejection)
- If rejected: Appeal within 1 month
Tips
- Care support center in your city offers free consultation
- Keep a care diary before your assessment
- Combined benefits possible: care allowance + benefits in kind proportionally
- Family caregivers receive pension insurance contributions credited