Anyone who earns so much that they can be insured by a private provider rather than statutory health insurance should think carefully about this. Private health insurance is not always the right choice.
The essentials in summary:
- In the case of legal insurance, the contribution is based on gross income; With a private policy, however, only age and health status count.
- Pre-existing illnesses or a certain age can lead to higher private insurance premiums.
- Children and life partners without income are not automatically insured with private insurance.
Legal or private: Depends on income
All citizens must have health insurance. The question is often: legal or private? While the legal health insurance (GKV) – with a few exceptions – is basically open to everyone, but things are different with private health insurance. As an employee, you can only take out private health insurance if you have exceeded the so-called annual salary limit (JAEG) for one year. It will be 69,300 euros in 2024.
In addition to the requirements, the two systems also differ in their contributions:
- In GKV it is The contribution depends on gross income. Those who earn more also pay more – up to the contribution assessment limit. In 2024 it will be 62,100 euros per year.
- In contrast, the contribution to private health insurance (PKV) is depending on age and health status, as well as desired insurance coverage. When you sign a private contract, you essentially enter into a “shotgun marriage” for life. Returning to statutory health insurance is generally impossible or only possible Under certain circumstances possible.
For single people and childless couples who work, it may make financial sense to switch to private health insurance. But be careful: Pre-existing illnesses or a certain age may lead to surcharges and risk exclusions or a high premium.
Additionally, initially low contributions can increase significantly in later years due to higher costs. You should definitely save the money you saved from your PKV contributions for retirement. Contributions do not decrease even if you stop working.
What you should consider before switching
- Compare offers: In no other area of insurance is it so difficult to compare prices and services.
- Search calmly: You should always get offers if you already have health insurance coverage without any time pressure.
- Be careful with cheap rates: Young people in particular are often offered false rates in which many services are reduced. This often causes problems with the insurance company. If you have to choose the lean rate because you can’t afford a standard rate, it’s best to stay away from private health insurance.
- This applies to children: Children and life partners without income are not insured free of charge by private health insurance. You need your own contributory contracts.