Overview
- Pflegegeld rates stay at 2025 levels through 2026 after the 4.5% rise this year, with the next statutory adjustment scheduled for 1 January 2028.
- The €131 monthly Entlastungsbetrag and the unified annual Entlastungsbudget of up to €3,539 remain available in 2026, including for people in Pflegegrad 1.
- The government is assessing the possible removal of Pflegegrad 1, which RWI estimates could save about €1.8 billion annually, though no decision has been taken and opposition has been voiced.
- The coalition targets stable contribution rates on 1 January 2026 despite an estimated €2 billion gap, with proposals under discussion such as capping residents’ co-payments and creating a Familienpflegegeld.
- Studies report low take-up of the Entlastungsbetrag at roughly 40%, and practical rules still apply, including the need for non‑remunerated caregivers for Pflegegeld, retroactive payments from the application date, and mandatory consultation visits.