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Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026 – €77,400 Income Threshold for Private Health Insurance in Germany
What is the Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026?
The Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze 2026 (JAEG 2026), also known as the income threshold for private health insurance in Germany, defines the minimum salary an employee must earn in order to switch from statutory health insurance (GKV) to private health insurance (PKV).
In 2025, the threshold was €73,800.
From January 2026, the JAEG rises to €77,400 gross per year (+4.9%).
Employees earning below the JAEG 2026 remain in the GKV, while those above €77,400 can apply for private health insurance.
Why the JAEG 2026 is important for employees
The JAEG 2026 income threshold directly determines who is eligible to join PKV in Germany.
Eligibility: Only employees above the JAEG 2026 can switch to private health insurance.
Financial impact: Contributions in GKV can exceed €1,100 per month, while PKV may be significantly cheaper.
Healthcare benefits: Private health insurance offers faster access to doctors, premium treatment options, and better overall care.
For many high earners, the JAEG 2026 threshold is the decisive factor for their healthcare options in Germany.
Book Your Free Consultation Now!
Health insurance in Germany can be simple. Our friendly team helps you find the perfect private health insurance plan, whether you're an employee, freelancer, or applying for a visa. Get personalized assistance and peace of mind.
Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026 – €77,400 Income Threshold for Private Health Insurance in Germany
What is the Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026?
The Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze 2026 (JAEG 2026), also known as the income threshold for private health insurance in Germany, defines the minimum salary an employee must earn in order to switch from statutory health insurance (GKV) to private health insurance (PKV).
In 2025, the threshold was €73,800.
From January 2026, the JAEG rises to €77,400 gross per year (+4.9%).
Employees earning below the JAEG 2026 remain in the GKV, while those above €77,400 can apply for private health insurance.
Why the JAEG 2026 is important for employees
The JAEG 2026 income threshold directly determines who is eligible to join PKV in Germany.
Eligibility: Only employees above the JAEG 2026 can switch to private health insurance.
Financial impact: Contributions in GKV can exceed €1,100 per month, while PKV may be significantly cheaper.
Healthcare benefits: Private health insurance offers faster access to doctors, premium treatment options, and better overall care.
For many high earners, the JAEG 2026 threshold is the decisive factor for their healthcare options in Germany.
Book Your Free Consultation Now!
Health insurance in Germany can be simple. Our friendly team helps you find the perfect private health insurance plan, whether you're an employee, freelancer, or applying for a visa. Get personalized assistance and peace of mind.
Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026 – €77,400 Income Threshold for Private Health Insurance in Germany
What is the Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze (JAEG) 2026?
The Jahresarbeitsentgeltgrenze 2026 (JAEG 2026), also known as the income threshold for private health insurance in Germany, defines the minimum salary an employee must earn in order to switch from statutory health insurance (GKV) to private health insurance (PKV).
In 2025, the threshold was €73,800.
From January 2026, the JAEG rises to €77,400 gross per year (+4.9%).
Employees earning below the JAEG 2026 remain in the GKV, while those above €77,400 can apply for private health insurance.
Why the JAEG 2026 is important for employees
The JAEG 2026 income threshold directly determines who is eligible to join PKV in Germany.
Eligibility: Only employees above the JAEG 2026 can switch to private health insurance.
Financial impact: Contributions in GKV can exceed €1,100 per month, while PKV may be significantly cheaper.
Healthcare benefits: Private health insurance offers faster access to doctors, premium treatment options, and better overall care.
For many high earners, the JAEG 2026 threshold is the decisive factor for their healthcare options in Germany.
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Book Your Free Consultation Now!
Health insurance in Germany can be simple. Our friendly team helps you find the perfect private health insurance plan, whether you're an employee, freelancer, or applying for a visa. Get personalized assistance and peace of mind.
