Private or statutory health insurance? 7 questions before deciding
As of: September 2026 · Erhan Özcan
The choice between private (PKV) and statutory (GKV) health insurance is a life decision. What matters is not just today's contributions, but your family, income and career path in 20 years.
1. Are you even allowed to switch?
Whether you can switch to private health insurance (PKV) depends on your status. Employees must earn above the compulsory insurance threshold, while self-employed people and civil servants generally have a free choice.
2. Are you planning a family?
In the PKV, every insured person pays their own contribution. In the GKV, children are co-insured free of charge under certain conditions. This can significantly change your calculation.
3. How secure is your income long-term?
PKV contributions are not based on income. You should be able to afford them even in phases of lower income – for example during parental leave or self-employment.
4. Which benefits matter to you?
In the PKV, you choose your scope of benefits yourself and it is contractually guaranteed. In the GKV, the legislator can change benefits. What matters is what is truly important to you.
5. What is your state of health?
The PKV requires a health assessment. Pre-existing conditions can lead to surcharges or exclusions. Honest and complete information is essential here.
6. How are you planning for old age?
You continue to pay PKV contributions in retirement. A well-thought-out plan with contribution relief and reserves is therefore part of the decision.
7. Who advises you – and do they know both systems?
Good advice compares not just tariffs, but both systems in the context of your life. Ask about qualifications and how your advisor is compensated.
Your situation is individual.
In the free PlusPlan Check we clarify what this means for you.