Apply for a care allowance
Monthly cash benefit from long-term care insurance for home care provided by family members or close relatives.
How to proceed
- 1
Apply for a care level (if you haven't already)
To be eligible for a care allowance, you must have at least a care level of 2.
- 2
Apply for long-term care benefits from the long-term care insurance fund
Submit a written request or use the form provided by your health insurance company's long-term care division.
- 3
Payout
Monthly payment, amount based on the level of care.
Required documents
- Care Level DeterminationMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 4 weeks
Official: max. approx. 4 weeks
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Confusion between the care level application and the care allowance application
- • Care log for MD assessment is missing
Common reasons for rejection
- • Care level not recognized or below 2
- • Home care not guaranteed
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
People in need of care (care level 2 or higher) who are cared for at home by family members or volunteer caregivers.
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. 4 weeks
Success rate
approx. 80.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Confusion between the care level application and the care allowance application
- •Care log for MD assessment is missing
Common reasons for rejection
- •Care level not recognized or below 2
- •Home care not guaranteed
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 is the care allowance?▼
Based on the care level, e.g., Care Level 2: €332, Care Level 5: €947 per month (as of 2024).