Health insurance for founders

If you move from compulsory insurance into self-employment, § 9 SGB V gives you three months to choose voluntary statutory insurance. If you miss this deadline, the way back into statutory insurance can be closed. So set the course early.

When you are young and in good health, the private entry premium is often lower than the statutory maximum contribution, which you reach quickly as your profit grows. At the same time, ageing reserves start to build up early. The step is hard to reverse, though, so the long-term view is part of the decision.

With children, a partner in compulsory statutory insurance or pre-existing conditions, statutory insurance is often the calmer choice. Family insurance can cover several people free of charge, and there are no risk surcharges because of your state of health.