A health insurance contribution notice

What this letter is

A „Beitragsbescheid“ tells you how much you must pay for health insurance, from which date, and how the amount was calculated.

It often follows a change: a new job, self-employment, the end of studies, or the end of another form of coverage.

What it usually asks you to do

Usually: pay the stated contribution, or supply proof of income so the amount can be recalculated. Look for „Einkommensnachweis“ (proof of income).

If the amount assumes an income you do not have, Krankenkassen commonly recalculate once you send evidence. A Sozialberatung can help you work out what evidence is needed.

The deadline that applies to you is printed on your own letter — usually near the top or at the end of the section describing what you must do. Look for a date, or a phrase such as „innerhalb von zwei Wochen“ (within two weeks) or „bis zum“ (by). Do not rely on a period you read online, including here: the same letter type carries different deadlines depending on why it was sent.