This is just general information regarding some of the social insurance funds, and is in no way legal information or advice.
Health Insurance
Please continue here for information regarding health insurance in Germany.
Statutory Pension Scheme
The statutory pension insurance is part of the social security system, which serves in particular to provide for the retirement of employees. Employees subject to social security contributions automatically pay part of their income into the pension insurance scheme. The compulsory contribution is paid in equal parts by the employee and the employer (CISPA). All employees and further groups such as students, trainees and apprentices are liable to contribute to statutory pension funds. If certain periods and preconditions are fulfilled, claims may be asserted to receive retirement pensions, pensions for those with a reduced earning capacity, or survivor's pensions for widows and orphans. In Germany, the age limit for retirement is currently between 65 and 67. Anyone born in 1964 or later will not be able to retire until age 67 without having their pension reduced.
This overview is not complete regarding all statutory wage-replacement benefits in Germany. For more information and advice, you can contact the Arbeitskammer in Saarbrücken.
Unemployment Insurance
Contribution to the unemployment insurance funds is mandatory in Germany for those employees who are liable to contribute to statutory social insurance in general. If certain periods and preconditions are fulfilled, the Arbeitslosengeld I (unemployment benefit) can be claimed for a limited period (between 6 and 24 months).
Benefit levels:
– 60 % of your recent net earnings (if you don't have any children)
– 67 % of your recent net earnings (if you have children, due to Kindergeld supplement)
Statutory Accident Insurance
This covers health risks for accidents at work and work-related diseases, and aims to prevent work-related health risks. Contributions to this fund are paid by CISPA as your employer.