Important insurances

Compulsory insurance for the self-employed includes health and long-term care insurance. You can either take out private or voluntary insurance with a statutory health insurance fund. Self-employed persons who have statutory health insurance are automatically covered by statutory long-term care insurance. Those with private health insurance must take out private long-term care insurance. The contributions depend on income, age and state of health. For self-employed artists and publicists, the Künstlersozialkasse (KSK) pays part of the contributions to pension, health and long-term care insurance.

Pension insurance is compulsory for certain self-employed occupational groups - for example, for self-employed teachers, craftsmen, midwives, educators and carers. You can find out whether you are subject to compulsory insurance at the German Pension Insurance advice center.

In some professions, the risk of accidents is higher. For certain self-employed individuals—such as those in home-based businesses, agriculture, or the healthcare sector—statutory accident insurance is mandatory. To obtain this coverage, you must register with the relevant employers’ liability insurance association within one week of starting your work. You can find out which employers’ liability insurance association is responsible by contacting the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). Even if you are not required to have insurance, it’s worth getting voluntary coverage against work-related accidents and occupational diseases.

If you wish to voluntarily insure yourself against unemployment, you can take out voluntary unemployment insurance. To do so, your self-employment must amount to at least 15 hours per week, and you must submit your application to the Employment Agency within three months of starting your self-employment. For more information, visit the Federal Employment Agency’s website: Voluntary Unemployment Insurance

It makes sense to take out occupational disability insurance to protect your livelihood and standard of living in the event of an emergency. If you are no longer able to work for health reasons, disability insurance will pay you a monthly pension. This provides you with financial security if you are permanently unable to work.

Public liability insurance protects you against personal injury, property damage and financial loss that may arise from your professional activities. In some professions - for example as a doctor, pharmacist, engineer or architect - it is compulsory. Even if it is not compulsory for everyone, it is generally recommended for every company. It offers important protection in the event of errors or damage.