Apply for home health care
Home nursing care under Section 37 of the German Social Code, Book V (SGB V) – Health insurance coverage for therapeutic care (e.g., wound care, injections) and basic care for individuals who are receiving care at home following a hospital stay or due to a serious illness.
How to proceed
- 1
Apply for a care level
First, submit an application for a care level; then wait for the assessment by the Medical Service.
- 2
Apply for a care allowance
In writing or online through the long-term care insurance fund.
- 3
Adhere to consultation schedules
Starting with PG 2: provide proof of counseling services every six months; starting with PG 3–5: provide proof every quarter.
Required documents
- Proof of Care LevelMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 months
Official: max. approx. 4 weeks
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Failure to report counseling services in accordance with Section 37(3) of SGB XI (care allowance will be suspended)
- • Care level not yet applied for
Common reasons for rejection
- • Care Level 1 is not sufficient to qualify for a care allowance
- • Care not provided by a private individual
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
People covered by statutory health insurance who need temporary home care following a hospital stay or due to a serious illness.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 months
Success rate
approx. 80.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Failure to report counseling services in accordance with Section 37(3) of SGB XI (care allowance will be suspended)
- •Care level not yet applied for
Common reasons for rejection
- •Care Level 1 is not sufficient to qualify for a care allowance
- •Care not provided by a private individual
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Related services
Questions & Answers
How much will the long-term care allowance be in 2024?▼
PG 2: €332, PG 3: €573, PG 4: €765, PG 5: €947 per month (as of 2024).