Definition. Switching health insurance fund means moving from one statutory health insurance fund to another. The new fund handles the cancellation through the membership notification, so you do not have to terminate with the old fund yourself. After joining, a binding period of twelve months usually applies, which can lapse if your fund raises its additional contribution rate.
How the switch works in practice
You register with the new fund and state that you want to switch. The new fund reports the switch to the old fund. The notification replaces the cancellation, and the old fund must confirm the cancellation within two weeks. After that, your membership continues seamlessly with the new fund.
Figures 2026 and their sources
| Figure | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Binding period after joining | 12 months | § 175 para. 4 sentences 1 and 2 SGB V |
| Notice period without a special right | At the end of the second calendar month after the notice is given | § 175 para. 4 sentence 3 SGB V |
| Confirmation of the cancellation by the old fund | Within two weeks at the latest | § 175 para. 4 sentence 5 SGB V |
| Average additional contribution rate 2026 | 2.9 percent | Federal Ministry of Health |
The special right of termination for additional contributions
If your fund raises its additional contribution rate, you can switch without observing the twelve months. Notice must be given by the end of the month from which the increase first applies. The new fund can tell you exactly how the switch will take effect, so ask there before you cancel.
An example during your studies
You have been with your fund for six months. It raises the additional contribution rate with effect from 1 January 2027. You check within the deadline whether another fund suits you and register the switch with the new fund. The binding period does not apply in this case.
Related terms
- Switching fund as a student: Switching health insurance fund as a student (in German)
- Special right of termination: Glossary special right of termination (in German)
- Additional contribution: Glossary additional contribution (in German)
- Additional contributions 2027: Additional contributions 2027 for students (in German)
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to cancel with my old fund myself?
No, the notification from the new fund replaces the cancellation. After confirmation, check that the old fund has confirmed the switch.
Can I switch during the binding period?
As a rule no, unless a special right of termination applies or your membership ends by law. Check the case before you decide.
From what age can I choose my fund myself?
The right to choose applies from the age of 15. As a student you are therefore generally free to choose your fund.
Last updated: October 2026. This entry is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
Sources: § 175 SGB V, Federal Ministry of Health, contributions to statutory health insurance.
