File a living will
Filing a living will with the Central Advance Directive Registry or with a local court or notary public to specify medical treatment preferences in advance.
How to proceed
- 1
Create a living will
In writing, with specific details regarding medical procedures.
- 2
Registration in the Central Pension Register
For a fee, so that doctors and guardianship courts are made aware of the situation.
- 3
Notify the designated representatives
Please provide the location and contents.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 weeks
Official: max. approx. 2 weeks
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The provision is too broadly worded, making it difficult to apply unambiguously in an emergency
- • Not listed in the pension registry, and therefore cannot be located in an emergency
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Adults who wish to specify their treatment preferences in the event that they become unable to make decisions for themselves.
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 weeks
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The provision is too broadly worded, making it difficult to apply unambiguously in an emergency
- •Not listed in the pension registry, and therefore cannot be located in an emergency
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.