Decoding Your German Health Insurance Letters (GKV)

Common Letters from Your Krankenkasse

German health insurance companies (Krankenkassen) send letters regularly. Here's what the most common ones mean.

1. Beitragsbestätigung (Contribution Confirmation)

Your annual confirmation of health insurance contributions — needed for your tax return. Keep this.

2. Beitragsanpassung (Contribution Adjustment)

Notice that your monthly premium is changing. Usually happens January 1st. Check the new amount and update your budget.

3. Bonusprogramm (Bonus Program)

Many Krankenkassen offer cashback for healthy activities (gym visits, check-ups, vaccinations). This letter explains what you qualify for.

4. Kündigungsbestätigung (Cancellation Confirmation)

If you're switching insurers, this confirms your cancellation. Keep this — you need it to prove you're not double-insured.

5. Familienversicherung (Family Insurance)

Confirmation of adding/removing family members from your plan. Important for partners and children.

Key Deadlines

Switching insurers: 2-month notice period after minimum 12 months

Tax return: Beitragsbestätigung needed by May 31st

Bonus claims: Usually must be submitted within the calendar year

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*Got a letter from your Krankenkasse you can't read? Upload it to Clario for a plain-English explanation.*