Definition of the long-term care childless surcharge
Long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung) funds support for people who need care. It is charged as a separate contribution rate alongside health insurance. Childless members pay a long-term care childless surcharge of 0.6 contribution points from the month after their 23rd birthday. Anyone who has a child, or who is under 23, pays the standard rate without the surcharge.
Value (as of 20 October 2026)
| Figure | Value | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contribution rate, long-term care insurance | 3.6 percent | official, since 1 January 2025 | Federal Ministry of Health, as of 14 September 2026 |
| Childless surcharge | 0.6 contribution points, 4.2 percent in total | official, since 1 July 2023 | Federal Ministry of Health, GKV-SV |
| Contribution for students without surcharge | 30.78 euros a month | calculated (855 times 3.6 percent) | GKV-SV fact sheet |
| Contribution for students with surcharge | 35.91 euros a month | calculated (855 times 4.2 percent) | GKV-SV fact sheet |
| Planned surcharge from 2027 | 0.7 points, 4.3 percent in total | planned, Long-Term Care Realignment Act | Federal Ministry of Health explanation |
Example
You are 24, childless and studying. Your long-term care contribution in the student health insurance (KVdS) is 855 times 4.2 percent, which comes to 35.91 euros a month. If you are 22, the contribution is 30.78 euros.
Related terms
KVdS (student health insurance), contribution rate, long-term care insurance, family insurance (Familienversicherung).
Further articles
Sources
Federal Ministry of Health, childless surcharge, GKV-Spitzenverband, fact sheet on contribution calculation figures 2026. As of 20 October 2026.
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
Editorial team: Academycon
For a first assessment of your situation, use the online check.
