German disability measures tighten with new insurance offering and higher employer penalties

The NÜRNBERGER Versicherung has launched a new generation of income‑protection products—BU4Future, DU4Future and BU4Business—that incorporate a mental‑health prevention module. In partnership with mentalis, insured persons with a psychological condition can receive six weeks of continuous support, including phone counselling and a therapy app. The policies also feature flexible coverage options, an authentic service‑incapacity clause, and have earned Assekurata certification for premium stability.

From March 31 2026, German employers with at least 20 staff must pay increased compensation levies if they fail to meet the 5 % quota for severely disabled workers. The new rates rise to €815 per unfilled mandatory position, with lower tiers for partial compliance. The funds collected support integration measures such as workplace adaptations and vocational subsidies, aiming to boost employment opportunities for people with severe disabilities.