German for insurance
Essential phrases and vocabulary for health insurance, premiums, benefits, claims, and switching insurance in Germany.
Liability insurance is practically mandatory
Private liability insurance is not legally required in Germany, but nearly always expected by landlords and employers. It is inexpensive and protects against high damage claims.
You can choose and switch your health insurer
As a statutory insurance member, you can choose your health insurer freely and switch if needed. Switching is possible after at least twelve months with your current insurer.
Report damage immediately
Always report damage to your insurer as quickly as possible. Many policies set a notification deadline, after which a claim may be rejected.
Comparing insurance pays off — but watch the total costs
Use comparison portals such as Check24 or Verivox to compare premiums. However, do not focus only on the lowest monthly premium — also check the excess, the notice period, and the exact scope of cover. A cheap plan with a high excess can end up more expensive in the event of a claim than a policy with a slightly higher premium.
Asking about the premium and benefits
You want to understand what your health insurance costs and covers.
How high is my monthly premium, and what is included in my plan?
Are dental treatments and vision aids covered?
Filing a claim
You have sustained damage and want to report it to the insurer.
I would like to file a claim. What do I need for that, and how long does processing take?
Will the reimbursement go directly to my account?
Switching insurance
You want to switch to a different health insurer.
I would like to switch my health insurer. How does that work, and what do I need to consider?
How long do I have to stay with you before I can switch?
Asking the insurer about the scope of cover
You want to take out contents insurance and call the provider to understand the terms.
Good day, I am interested in contents insurance. Could you explain which damages are covered, how high the excess is, and from when the cover applies?
The agent explains the benefits and points out that bicycle theft is only covered with an additional clause.
How do I ask whether a service is covered?
Ask directly: Will my health insurer cover the costs of this treatment? That quickly clarifies whether you need to pay yourself.
How do I say I want to submit an invoice?
Say: I would like to submit this invoice to you. What is the best way? You will then find out whether to use post, app, or online portal.
How do I ask about family insurance?
Say: Can I co-insure my children free of charge under family insurance? With statutory health insurance this is often possible.
What is the difference between personal liability and contents insurance?
Personal liability insurance protects you when you cause damage to other people or their property — for example if you accidentally break an expensive vase at a friend's home. Contents insurance, by contrast, protects your own belongings in the flat against burglary, fire, burst pipes, or storm. Both policies complement each other and together are often available for under €15 a month.
How do I report a claim to the insurer?
Report the damage as quickly as possible — preferably by phone or through your insurer's app. Have your insurance number, a description of the damage, and photos ready if possible. Most insurers confirm receipt within a few working days and let you know whether a loss adjuster is needed or whether the reimbursement will be transferred directly.
When is private health insurance (PKV) worthwhile?
PKV can be worthwhile if you are a civil servant, self-employed, or an employee earning above the compulsory insurance threshold (2024: approx. €69,300 gross per year). PKV often offers shorter waiting times, treatment by senior doctors, and better dental benefits. Bear in mind, however: premiums rise significantly with age, switching back to GKV is difficult, and family members without their own income must be insured separately.
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These texts are for language learning and general orientation only and may be simplified or out of date — they are not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice. Some content is AI-generated. Please confirm important details with the responsible authority or a qualified professional.