Apply for a care allowance
Monthly care allowance provided by the statutory long-term care insurance program for individuals in need of care who are cared for by family members or volunteer caregivers.
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the long-term care insurance fund
Along with or after the application for a care level.
- 2
Care Level Assessment by the MDK
Care allowance is granted starting from the month in which the application is filed.
- 3
Monthly payment
Amounts: PG2: €332, PG3: €573, PG4: €765, PG5: €947 (2024).
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 4 weeks
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Confusion with in-kind care benefits (only one of the two is possible)
- • Application not submitted in a timely manner after classification
Common reasons for rejection
- • Care level below 2
- • Care is provided by a professional service (in which case it is considered a care benefit in kind)
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals requiring care at care level 2 or higher who are cared for at home by non-professional 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. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 88.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Confusion with in-kind care benefits (only one of the two is possible)
- •Application not submitted in a timely manner after classification
Common reasons for rejection
- •Care level below 2
- •Care is provided by a professional service (in which case it is considered a care benefit in kind)
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
Can I combine cash benefits for long-term care with in-kind benefits?▼
Yes, in the form of a pro-rata combination (Section 38 of Book XI of the Social Code): Anyone who uses only a portion of the in-kind benefit receives a pro-rata care allowance.