Familienversicherung, literally translated as “family insurance,” is a concept in German health insurance that allows family members to be included in one’s health insurance without additional costs. This is particularly relevant in the context of public health insurance (Gesetzliche KrankenkasseKrankenkasse, literally translated as "sickness fund" in English, refers to a public health insurance company in Germany. These entities are... More).
What is “Familienversicherung”?
Familienversicherung is a feature of the German public health insurance system that enables the inclusion of family members—such as a spouse, children, step-children, and grandchildren—in the primary insured person’s health coverage at no extra charge, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include the family members living in Germany, not being covered by their own or private health insurance, and not exceeding specific income thresholds. This system is designed to provide comprehensive health coverage for families without the need for each member to have separate health insurance policies, making it a significant advantage of the public health insurance system over private insurance in Germany[1].
More information about “Familienversicherung”
Children can be included in the Familienversicherung up to the age of 18, with extensions up to 23 years if they are not employed, and up to 25 years under certain conditions such as being a student or volunteer. There are no age limits for children with disabilities. The inclusion of family members is subject to income limits, with the health insurance evaluating various sources of income to determine eligibility. It’s important to provide documentation of income annually to maintain coverage under Familienversicherung[1].
Related to “Familienversicherung”
Here are some additional terms that are related to Familienversicherung:
- Gesetzliche KrankenkasseKrankenkasse, literally translated as "sickness fund" in English, refers to a public health insurance company in Germany. These entities are... More: The public health insurance system in Germany, offering Familienversicherung among its benefits.
- KindergeldKindergeld is a financial support provided by the German government to families, translating literally to "child money" in English. What... More: A financial benefit provided by the German government to support families with children, complementing the benefits of Familienversicherung[4].
- Elterngeld: A financial benefit for parents who take time off work after the birth of a child, highlighting the German government’s support for families alongside Familienversicherung[4].
Familienversicherung is a cornerstone of the German health insurance system, providing comprehensive coverage for families and ensuring that all members have access to healthcare without the burden of additional costs.