German Health Insurance Add-On (Zusatzbeitrag) Calculator

In Germany every statutory health insurer (Krankenkasse) charges the same general contribution rate of 14.6%. On top of that, each fund sets its own Zusatzbeitrag (add-on contribution). The federal average Zusatzbeitrag for 2026 is 2.9%, but individual funds range from 2.18% to 4.39%.

Since 2019 the add-on is paid entirely by the employee – the employer's share of the general rate is capped at 7.3%. So your personal health-insurance cost depends heavily on which Kasse you pick.

The calculator multiplies your contribution base (gross pay up to the 2026 Beitragsbemessungsgrenze of €5,812.50/month) by the add-on rate, then splits it: you pay the full add-on, your employer pays none of it. It also shows your total employee GKV contribution (7.3% general share + half the add-on) and compares your fund with the 2.9% average.

At a gross salary of €4,000/month and an add-on of 2.9%: contribution base = €4,000 (below the €5,812.50 ceiling). Employee add-on = €4,000 × 2.9% × 0.5 = €58.00/month. Total employee GKV = 7.3% × €4,000 + €58.00 = €350.00. The employer pays the same €350.00.

1. Enter your monthly gross salary in euro.
2. Enter your Krankenkasse Zusatzbeitrag rate as a percentage (default 2.9% = the 2026 average).
3. Click Calculate to see your employee add-on, your total employee GKV share, and the employer share.
4. Compare the result with the 2.9% average to see whether you are over- or under-paying.
5. For yearly figures, multiply the monthly amounts by 12.

What is the 2026 average Zusatzbeitrag?

The federal average add-on rate for 2026 is 2.9%, announced by the Federal Ministry of Health. Individual funds range from 2.18% to 4.39%.

Who pays the Zusatzbeitrag?

Since 2019 the add-on is paid entirely by the employee. The employer pays 7.3% of the general 14.6% rate but nothing of the add-on.

What is the 2026 contribution ceiling (BBG)?

Health-insurance contributions in 2026 are calculated on gross pay up to €5,812.50 per month (€69,750 per year). Income above that is contribution-free for GKV.

Why do funds charge different rates?

The add-on covers each fund's operating costs and benefits. Funds with older, cheaper member pools or lean operations can charge less; others near the ceiling cross-subsidise.

Can I avoid a high add-on?

Yes. You can switch Krankenkasse freely. If your fund raises its rate you gain a special one-month cancellation right.

Is the add-on tax-deductible?

Health-insurance contributions (general rate + add-on) are generally deductible as special expenses (Sonderausgaben) on your German income-tax return, within statutory limits.

This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a qualified financial professional for advice specific to your situation.

Switching Krankenkasse is free and takes effect with one month's notice if your fund raises its rate – you have a Sonderkündigungsrecht (special right of termination).

Cheap large funds in 2026 include TK and AOK Bayern at 2.69%; some funds sit near the 4.39% ceiling.

The add-on is the single biggest lever on your net pay among the health-insurance components.