Employed with public health insurance (GKV)

Who it is for: You have a job earning below the compulsory-insurance threshold, or simply prefer public insurance.

Public insurance is the default for employees. Contributions are income-based and split with your employer; family members can be co-insured for free.

Your options

Statutory health insurers (TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK, etc.)

Coverage is largely identical by law; insurers differ mainly in their additional contribution (Zusatzbeitrag) and service. You can switch after 12 months.

Typical cost: Employee share ~8.05% of gross (half of 14.6% + half of the ~2.9% average top-up), capped at the €69,750 ceiling, plus care insurance.

Our take

For most employees — and anyone with a family or pre-existing conditions — public insurance is the safe, flexible choice.

Frequently asked questions

How much will I actually pay?

Roughly 8% of your gross salary up to the ceiling, matched by your employer. Our net-salary calculator shows the exact split for 2026.

Can my spouse and kids be covered for free?

Yes — family co-insurance (Familienversicherung) covers non-earning spouses and children at no extra cost, a major GKV advantage.

Last verified: 21 July 2026