High-income earners in Germany face an increase in social security contributions in 2026
Starting from January 1, 2026, high-income earners in Germany will see a significant increase in social security contributions, with the thresholds for assessing contributions to pensions and health insurance rising to reflect overall income growth. This ensures fair contributions without changing the fundamental rules.
Social security contributions include health insurance, long-term care, retirement, and unemployment insurance, and are deducted from employees' salaries. The new adjustments mean that high-income earners will pay more, but only because the income thresholds have been adjusted upward in line with the overall wage increase.
Regarding pension insurance, the contribution assessment ceiling for the general pension insurance will increase from €8,050 per month to €8,450, which equals €101,400 annually. In the miners' pension insurance, the limits will rise from €9,900 to €10,400 per month, which is €124,800 annually.
Health insurance contributions will also increase. The contribution assessment ceiling will rise from €66,150 per year to €69,750 per year (or €5,812.50 per month). The mandatory insurance limits, which are covered by legal insurance up to their value, will be €6,450 per month, or €77,400 per year.
Officials confirmed that the principle of social protection remains in place. No additional contributions will be imposed on income exceeding the new thresholds, but the amendment ensures that high-income earners continue to contribute appropriately to the German social security system.