Illness is a part of life, and understanding the intricacies of sick leave and sick pay is crucial for every employee. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into essential aspects that every worker should be aware of when it comes to dealing with sickness.
Sick Leave and Sick Pay in Germany
How many sick days am I allowed to take in a year?
German workers, on average, utilize around 11 sick days annually. You have the freedom to take sick days even during your probationary period, and your employer cannot penalize you for doing so. However, taking more than 30 sick days in a year may lead to termination.
What is the maximum duration for sick leave?
Extended sick leave is granted for six weeks with payment covered by your employer; afterward, your health insurer assumes the costs. If you experience recurrent sick leave for the same illness within a year, the days accumulate. Following six weeks of standard sick leave pay, you qualify for Krankengeld, equivalent to a maximum of 90% of your post-tax wage, lasting up to 72 weeks.
Do I get paid for sick leave in Germany?
You start getting sick pay once a doctor confirms you’re ill. This payment continues as long as the doctor’s note is valid. It’s important to attend any scheduled medical examinations. If you miss these appointments, your sick pay might be halted.
If you’re getting other benefits or your illness is linked to a work-related accident or occupational disease, you need to tell your health insurance company. While you’re on sick leave and receiving pay, leaving Germany requires permission from your health insurance. Otherwise, your sick pay could be stopped.
What is Krankengeld?
Krankengeld is a form of sickness benefit in Germany, providing financial support to individuals unable to work due to illness for more than six weeks. The amount is a percentage of their salary, subject to certain limits.
How much Krankengeld can I get?
According to the Federal Ministry of Health, When you’re unable to work, your employer typically covers your wages for the first six weeks. After this initial period, your health insurance steps in, paying 70 percent of your usual gross wages, up to the contribution assessment limit (which is 4,837.50 euros per month as of 2021). However, this amount will not exceed 90 percent of your last net wages.
It’s important to note that sickness benefits, including the continued payment of wages, have a maximum duration. You can receive these benefits for up to 78 weeks within a three-year period. This means that if you face a prolonged illness or health-related issue, the support from your health insurance and employer has a defined limit over this timeframe.
How to calculate Krankengeld?
Krankengeld is calculated on a daily basis and is distributed according to the total number of calendar days you are eligible for the benefit. If your income has significantly fluctuated over the past three months, an average is calculated, establishing the base daily salary.
The maximum Krankengeld amount is capped at 120.75 euros gross per day, equating to a monthly maximum of 3,622.5 euros gross. However, after deducting social contributions, the highest net sick pay you can receive in 2024 is 3,259.8 euros per month, irrespective of your monthly salary.
Are parents paid when their child is sick?
If your child (under 12) requires monitoring, support, or care due to a diagnosed illness, and no one else in your household can attend to them, your state health insurance covers your sick pay.
You can receive sick pay for each child for a maximum of 15 working days (or 30 working days if you’re a single parent) per year.
Image source: Federal Ministry of Health
Can you get sick leave for burnout?
Yes, in Germany, burnout can be considered a valid reason for sick leave. Burnout is a mental health condition characterized by chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. If a medical professional diagnoses you with burnout and provides a medical certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung), you can take sick leave.
It’s essential to communicate with your employer and follow the proper procedures for reporting and documenting your sick leave. Additionally, seeking support from a healthcare professional or counselor is advisable to address the underlying causes of burnout.
4 Steps to Report Sick Leave in Germany.
1. Notify Your Employer:
If you find yourself too unwell to work, inform your employer promptly. Check your employment contract for the proper sick leave reporting procedure.
2. Visit a Doctor:
Schedule a visit to a doctor within three days of falling ill. Obtain a medical certificate detailing the period you’re unfit for work.
3. Submit the Certificate:
Quickly provide your employer with the medical certificate. Be aware of any specific sick leave documentation procedures outlined in your company’s policies.
4. Manage Sick Leave Duration:
The certificate indicates your expected recovery duration. If more time off is needed, revisit the doctor before the initial certificate expires for an extension. Stay in regular contact with your employer regarding your progress and return-to-work plans.
How do I apply for Krankengeld?
To apply for sickness benefits (Krankengeld) in Germany, your health insurance requires your incapacity certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung or Gelber Schein). Typically sent digitally by your doctor after an examination, your employer should also receive a copy, preferably digitally through your GP practice. Your insurance provider will send a response by mail, indicating your eligibility for sickness benefits and providing instructions for the subsequent steps. If ineligible, you might explore options like unemployment benefits or long-term care benefits.
Am I allowed to leave my residence while on sick leave?
During your sick leave in Germany, it’s generally expected that you focus on your recovery and avoid activities that could hinder your health. However, this doesn’t mean you must stay indoors at all times. You are allowed to go outside and engage in activities that do not conflict with your medical condition or impede your recovery.
Remember, the primary goal during sick leave is to prioritize your well-being and facilitate a smooth return to work when you’re ready.
What if I fall ill during my vacation?
If you fall ill during your annual holidays in Germany, you can convert the days you are sick into sick leave instead of regular vacation days. To do this, you need to provide your employer with a medical certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung) from a doctor, confirming your illness and the period you are unfit for work. This allows you to use your sick days instead of vacation days, and your employer should not deduct these sick days from your annual leave balance. Make sure to inform your employer as soon as possible about your illness and provide the necessary documentation to support your sick leave during the vacation period.
In tough times, remember that the system is here to help. Don’t hesitate to use the resources and support available. Whether it’s sick leave or Krankengeld, these tools are designed to assist you in your journey to recovery. Prioritize your well-being, and take advantage of the help that’s there for you.