Care support allowance: short-term leave for relatives

If a close relative suddenly needs care, you often need time right away to organize it. For this there is a short-term release from work and, as wage replacement, the care support allowance from the care insurance fund.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Employees may stay away from work for up to ten working days in an acute care situation of a close relative in order to organize the care (§ 2 PflegeZG). For this time there is care support allowance as wage replacement (§ 44a SGB XI).

This applies regardless of the size of the business. You only have to report the impediment without delay and, on request, present a medical certificate of the need for care.

What you should do now

1
1. Report immediately
Report the short-term impediment to work to your employer without delay.
2
2. Obtain a certificate
If needed, obtain a medical certificate of the need for care.
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3. Apply for the allowance
Apply for care support allowance at the relative's care insurance fund.
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4. Check further options
Clarify whether care leave or family care leave makes sense afterward.

How to spot the scam

The short-term impediment is not reported without delay.
The care support allowance is not applied for.
Longer-term needs are not secured through care leave.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I take short-term leave for care?

Up to ten working days per acute care emergency of a close relative, in order to organize or ensure the care (§ 2 PflegeZG). This right applies regardless of the size of the business.

Do I get money for this time?

Yes, as wage replacement there is the care support allowance from the care insurance fund of the relative in need of care (§ 44a SGB XI), provided no other continued pay applies. You must apply for it at the care insurance fund.

What about longer-term care needs?

If ten days are not enough, care leave (up to six months) or family care leave may be considered, allowing you to reduce or suspend work for a longer period. These are tied to further conditions, such as the size of the business.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.