Employee social contributions to rise for higher-income earners, effective from 2026
Each year, the financial health of Germany's health insurance funds determines the additional contributions for their insured individuals. In the first half of 2022, the combined expenditure of approximately 90 health insurance funds increased by 7.95% to 166.1 billion euros.
The exact planned contribution amounts for individual insurance types for the year 2026 remain unclear in the current search results. However, the chairman of the Christian Democratic Workers' Association of Germany, Dennis Radtke, has highlighted the potential increase in additional contributions in the GKV (German Statutory Health Insurance) that could affect many employees.
Radtke also noted that the federal government has limited maneuverability in increasing wages, and the total contribution to health insurance, shared between employees and employers, currently stands at 14.6% of gross wages.
Reiner Holznagel, president of the Federal Association of Taxpayers, has suggested cutting social benefits instead of continually raising limits to manage the rising costs. Each autumn, an expert committee determines an orientation value for the average additional contribution in the following year. The average additional contributions rose to 2.9% at the beginning of this year.
While the specifics for 2026 are yet to be announced, it is clear that the health insurance contributions are on the rise. As the situation develops, it is essential to stay informed and prepare for potential changes in health insurance contributions.
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