Overview
- Berlin is reportedly weighing the abolition of Care Grade 1 to ease funding pressures, though a federal–state working group now proposes keeping the grades with Grade 1 refocused on prevention, and providers warn that 860,000 people could lose vital everyday support.
- Eligibility is set by a nationwide assessment that rates six domains, with at least 12.5 points required for Care Grade 1 and self-care weighted most heavily at 40 percent, while household chores do not count toward the score.
- In force for 2025 are a 4.5 percent increase in cash and in-kind benefits, a monthly relief amount up to €131, a unified €3,539 annual relief budget from July for Grades ≥2, removal of the six‑month pre-care requirement, and a 3.6 percent contribution rate.
- Benefit entitlement starts on the day of first application under §33 SGB XI, retroactive upgrades are possible under §44 SGB X, delays cost applicants about €1,900 on average, thorough evidence and professional support raise success rates, and family caregivers can earn pension credits with at least 10 hours of weekly care for Grade ≥2.
- Decisions should come within 25 working days, with fast-track rules of five days from hospital or rehab and within a week for palliative cases, and unjustified delays can trigger €70 per week in compensation and emergency court relief.