German Minister Nina Warken proposes care reform cutting pension credits for caregivers

Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) has introduced a draft reform of Germany's long‑term care insurance that will reduce the pension contributions paid by the care insurance for people who look after relatives at home. Starting in 2027 the contributions will be lowered to 70 % of the current level, and for caregivers who are already retired the scheme will stop granting any pension points altogether.

The government estimates the change will save about €1.8 billion in 2027 and more than €2 billion each year thereafter, contributing to an overall relief of roughly €11 billion for the care insurance system. The cuts will hit three groups hardest: women with interrupted employment histories, those who left or reduced work to provide care, and older caregivers already receiving a pension. The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from caregiver organisations, the CSU and patient‑rights groups, who warn it will punish informal caregivers.

All pension entitlements earned before 2027 will remain unaffected.