Germany moves to protect caregivers from pension cuts and clarifies care allowance rules

A petition launched by the Contergan Injured Association of Hesse urges the government to halt proposed reductions in pension benefits for informal caregivers, arguing that those who look after relatives should not face financial disadvantages in retirement. The petition, highlighted by Jutta Sattler, calls for recognition of caregivers’ essential contribution to society.

The Federal Ministry of Health explains that the Pflegegeld (care allowance) is paid directly to care‑dependent people by the Pflegekasse, the care insurance branch linked to their health insurer. Eligible from care level 2 onward, the allowance ranges from €347 per month for level 2 to €990 for level 5, with the same amounts under statutory and private insurance. Recipients can use the funds as they wish, often passing them to the relatives providing care. These measures aim to support home‑based care and ensure caregivers are not penalised financially.