In Germany, contributions to care insurance for childless people will be increased

In Germany, childless insured people will pay more into the compulsory long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung). As part of the reform, the government has provided for an increase in the special surcharge for people without children by 0.1 percentage points.

From January 1, 2027, the surcharge is to rise from the current 0.6% to 0.7%. As a result, the total contribution rate for childless people will be 4.3% of income instead of 4.2%. The Federal Ministry of Health of Germany clarifies that the additional contribution, as before, will be paid entirely by the employee - the employer's contribution will not increase due to this change.

In fact, for most working people without children this will mean a slight reduction in net salary. For example, with an income of 3,000 euros per month, the additional 0.1% will amount to about 3 euros per month, and with a salary of 4,000 euros - about 4 euros. The contribution is levied only on income within the statutory social insurance contribution ceiling.

The increased rate applies to members of the social Pflegeversicherung system without children, generally after reaching the age of 23. Currently, childless people pay a total of 4.2%, while the standard rate for people with one child is 3.6%. Additional contribution discounts apply to parents with several children under 25 years of age.

The reform also provides for other ways to increase revenue for the care system. In particular, from 2027 employers are to start paying a contribution of 3.6% also on the wages of employees in so-called mini-jobs. In addition, the upper limit of income from which Pflegeversicherung contributions are levied is planned to be raised.

The changes are explained by the growing financial burden on the care insurance system due to an aging population and an increasing number of people in need of care. The government hopes the additional revenue will stabilize the overall rate for other insured persons.

The decision is especially relevant for Ukrainians officially working in Germany and enrolled in the state health and social insurance system: if they fall under the rules for childless insured persons, the new rate will automatically affect the amount of deductions from salary.

Based on materials from: Federal Ministry of Health of Germany, Süddeutsche Zeitung