When am I entitled to sick pay?
May 16, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Christian Voigt
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is Elvira Otten, and I have been working as a salesperson in a supermarket for the past 10 years. Unfortunately, I had to take a longer break from my job recently due to a serious illness. My employer has notified the health insurance company about my illness, and I am now receiving sickness benefits.
My doctor has informed me that I will likely be on sick leave for a few more weeks, and I am wondering until when I am entitled to receive sickness benefits. I am concerned because my income has been significantly reduced by the sickness benefits, and I am unsure how long I can financially manage.
Could you please explain to me how long I will continue to receive sickness benefits and if there may be a way to improve my financial situation? Are there any alternative benefits that I may be entitled to? I would be grateful for any information and support.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Best regards,
Elvira Otten
Dear Mrs. Otten,
Thank you for your inquiry and for trusting in my expertise in the field of social insurance law. I am sorry to hear that you had to pause your job as a saleswoman due to a serious illness. It is understandable that you are concerned about your financial situation, especially regarding the receipt of sickness benefits and the duration of the same.
In general, insured individuals are entitled to sickness benefits as long as they are unable to work and are continuously certified as unfit for work by a doctor. The first phase of sickness benefits usually lasts 6 weeks and amounts to 70% of the gross earnings, but not more than 90% of the net earnings. After this period, the health insurance fund takes over the payment of sickness benefits amounting to 60% of the gross earnings, again limited to 90% of the net earnings.
The maximum duration for receiving sickness benefits is usually 78 weeks within three years. After this time, the entitlement to sickness benefits ends. It is important that you regularly visit your treating physician and continue to be certified as unfit for work in order to maintain your entitlement to sickness benefits.
Regarding alternative benefits, there may be the possibility under certain circumstances to apply for additional benefits such as unemployment benefit II (Hartz IV) if you are still unable to work after the end of the sickness benefit period. However, it will be assessed whether you meet the requirements for receiving these benefits.
It is recommended to consult with your responsible case manager at the health insurance fund or at the employment agency to inquire about possible support services and to possibly submit applications. It is important to clarify your financial situation early in order to avoid potential difficulties.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions. I wish you all the best for your recovery and your financial situation.
Sincerely,
Christian Voigt
Attorney specializing in social insurance law
