Prerequisite for the bonus for relatives 

In order for family carers to be entitled to the bonus, certain conditions must be met:

• the person in need of care is entitled to care allowance level 4 or higher.
• the person in need of care has been cared for predominantly at home for at least 1 year.
• the carer is a close relative and provides most of the care.
• the average income of the carer must not exceed 1,594.50 Euros net per month.

Bonus for relatives and insurance

People who mainly care for a close relative themselves can take out pension insurance under simplified conditions. However, relatives who are not self-insured or continue to be insured must submit an application for the bonus for relatives to the insurance provider, which also pays out the care allowance. The bonus is also paid to other close relatives with a lower income, such as pensioners.

Payment of the bonus

The bonus is paid out monthly in arrears. It is tax-free and is not offset against minimum income support, equalization supplement and other social benefits. The bonus is only paid once per person in need of care. Caring relatives also only receive the bonus once, even if they care for several people at the same time.
 

Application for a bonus for relatives

To receive a bonus for relatives, please click on the following link:

Further grants for family carers

As a family carer, you may be entitled to further grants,  cash and support benefits, including:

Last updated: June 25, 2025