Optional tariffs and bonus programs offer interesting opportunities to save money with health insurance. However, not all offers are suitable for everyone. We explain the different options and for whom they are worthwhile.
What are Optional Tariffs?
Optional tariffs are special tariff options that health insurance funds offer voluntarily. They supplement or modify the normal statutory health insurance coverage:
Premium Tariff
With this tariff, you receive a premium back if you have not used any services in a year (except preventive care).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Premium when no claims | Binding period (often 3 years) |
| Reward for health | No benefit when sick |
For Whom is it Suitable?
The premium tariff is worthwhile for young, healthy people who rarely visit the doctor and have no chronic illnesses.
Deductible Tariff
You assume part of the costs yourself (e.g., 500 euros per year) and receive a premium in return.
- Advantage: Regular premium, often higher than with premium tariff
- Disadvantage: In case of illness, you have to pay up to the deductible yourself
- Binding period: Usually 3 years
Caution: Consider Risk
With the deductible tariff, you bear a cost risk. If you become ill, the deductible can quickly exceed the premium!
Sick Pay Optional Tariffs
For self-employed and voluntarily insured persons, there are options for sick pay:
- Sick pay optional tariff: Entitlement to sick pay from the 8th or 15th day
- Sick pay declaration: Entitlement from the 43rd day
What are Bonus Programs?
Bonus programs reward health-conscious behavior with cash or material premiums. Unlike optional tariffs, they are without binding period and risk-free.
Typical Bonus Activities
| Activity | Typical Points/Premium |
|---|---|
| Health check-up | 10-30 euros |
| Cancer screening | 10-20 euros |
| Dental check-up | 10-15 euros |
| Vaccinations | 5-15 euros per vaccination |
| Sports club/gym membership | 20-50 euros |
| Health course (e.g., back school) | 50-150 euros |
| Normal weight (BMI proof) | 10-25 euros |
| Non-smoking status | 10-25 euros |
How Do Bonus Programs Work?
Register
Register for your health insurance fund's bonus program (online or via form).
Prove Activities
Collect proof of your health activities (stamps, certificates, app data).
Redeem Points
Submit the proof and receive your premium (cash or material premiums).
The Best Bonus Programs 2025
Some health insurance funds offer particularly attractive bonus programs:
Top Bonus Programs
The best programs allow premiums of over 200 euros per year. Look for: High premiums, easy proof options, and diverse activities.
Optional Tariff or Bonus Program - Which is Better?
| Criterion | Optional Tariff | Bonus Program |
|---|---|---|
| Binding period | Yes (1-3 years) | No |
| Risk | Yes (deductible) | No |
| Premium when sick | No/Reduced | Yes (partially) |
| Max. premium/year | 300-600 euros | 100-300 euros |
Recommendation: Start with the bonus program - it's risk-free. Optional tariffs should only be chosen by very healthy people who want to commit for a long time.
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