Hardship: dentures without an own share

Anyone on a low income should not have to do without dental prostheses. That is what the hardship provision is for: the statutory health insurance then covers the standard care in full.

Who is entitled

Anyone receiving citizen's benefit, basic income support, social assistance or training assistance is entitled directly. Beyond that an income limit applies which changes every year and rises with every dependant in the household.

The sliding hardship provision

If the income is just above the limit, an intermediate step applies: the own share is capped. This is little known and is often not offered of its own accord – ask about it.

How the application works

Hardship is applied for at the health insurer before the treatment begins, together with the treatment and cost plan. Afterwards it is difficult.

What it does not cover

Only the standard care. Anyone who wants a more elaborate restoration pays the difference themselves even as a hardship case.