Overview
- Effective January 1, 2026, about 60% of privately insured customers face premium increases averaging roughly 13%, according to the PKV association.
- Major providers confirmed hikes: Allianz about 11%, Gothaer about 12.7%, Barmenia about 11.6%, and HanseMerkur 13%.
- Insurers cite a sustained rise in medical expenditures, with actuarial tariff reviews triggering adjustments once cost deviations breach set thresholds.
- Statutory insurers expect the average Zusatzbeitrag to rise from 2.5% to at least 2.9%, which the GKV federation warned will affect roughly 75 million members.
- Retirees are particularly vulnerable because pension subsidies cover only part of private premiums and routes back to statutory coverage are largely closed after age 55, raising risks of arrears and transfer into restricted emergency tariffs.