Overview
- The Federal Ministry of Health published a non-binding 2.9% orientation value for next year’s average Zusatzbeitrag in statutory health insurance.
- The estimate does not fix actual rates, which each health fund sets individually, with current surcharges ranging from under 2% to over 4%.
- GKV-Spitzenverband chief Oliver Blatt warned that, without further political measures, many funds may raise rates and push the 2026 average above 3%.
- Health Minister Nina Warken secured a €2 billion savings package in the Bundestag to ease pressure, while social and consumer groups say broader structural reforms are needed.
- If a fund increases its surcharge, members obtain a special right to switch, and the general contribution rate remains 14.6% of wages split between employers and employees.