Navigating the intricacies of child sickness benefits in Germany is crucial for working parents. Known as ‘Kinderkrankengeld’, this benefit provides financial support to parents who need to take time off work to care for a sick child.
Eligibility and Application for Child Sickness Benefit
Eligibility for Kinderkrankengeld hinges on several factors, including being a waged employee with sickness benefit entitlement, statutory health insurance coverage, and having a child under 12 years of age (exceptions apply for disabled children) who needs care. A doctor’s certificate is required to confirm the child’s illness and need for care.
Parents covered by private health insurance may not qualify for Kinderkrankengeld but should check with their insurer for similar benefits.
Amount and Duration of Benefit
The child sickness benefit pays up to 90% of lost net earnings, with a cap based on the contribution assessment ceiling for health insurance. The exact amount depends on your salary and may include deductions for pensions, long-term care, and unemployment insurance. This benefit can influence the calculation of other social security benefits, like housing and parental allowances.
In 2024, each parent is entitled to up to 15 days per child, per year, while single parents can claim up to 30 days. For terminally ill children, the benefit period is unlimited.
Application Process
To apply, obtain a medical certificate from your family doctor and complete the required form, providing details of your German bank account and employer. Submit these documents to both your employer and health insurance company. If unemployed, present the certificate to your local employment agency instead.
Child Sickness Benefit During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The German government expanded the entitlement for Kinderkrankengeld during the COVID-19 pandemic. For 2020 and 2021, the number of eligible days increased significantly, and the benefit was extended to cover instances where children needed to be cared for at home due to school or daycare closures. A doctor’s certificate was not required for these specific cases, but confirmation from educational institutions might be needed.
In conclusion, the Kinderkrankengeld is an essential support system for working parents in Germany, providing necessary financial assistance during challenging times. Understanding these benefits, their application process, and recent expansions due to COVID-19 can greatly aid parents in effectively managing their family and work responsibilities.
