New care rules 2025: More money and fewer hurdles for those affected!

New care rules 2025: More money and fewer hurdles for those affected!

New regulations have been in effect since July 1, 2025, which can provide relief for many people in need of care and their relatives. The regulations for short-term and preventive care have been revised and now offer a uniform annual amount that can be used flexibly for both types of care. Overall, these changes particularly appeal to all those in need of care from care level 2 onwards.

Short-term care is temporary nursing care in a fully inpatient facility when home care is not possible. Respite care, on the other hand, comes into effect if the carer is absent due to vacation, illness or other reasons. From now on, all those in need of care from care level 2 can claim a new total amount of 3,539 euros per calendar year, regardless of whether for short-term or preventive care.

Important changes at a glance

A central feature of the new regulations is the removal of the complicated transfer regulations. Amounts from the first half of 2025 can now be offset against the new annual amount. In addition, the previously required six-month pre-care period is no longer required, which means that preventive care can now be used immediately after receiving a care level. Hallelife reported that the maximum duration of claims for short-term and respite care was increased to eight weeks. The care allowance will also continue to be paid during this time.

Particularly pleasing for relatives: If they take on preventative care, they can now receive a maximum of twice the care allowance, which represents valuable support. This support is provided by the Consumer advice center particularly highlighted, which refers to its free hotline through which care advice is offered.

Uniform regulations for all those in need of care

The new regulations also entail adjustments in the care of children, adolescents and young adults under the age of 25. Until 2024, those in care levels 4 and 5 had a higher budget for short-term and preventive care, but this special regulation is now no longer applicable. From care level 2 onwards, the uniform annual amount of 3,539 euros applies to all those affected, regardless of age. AOK reports that applications for care services should be submitted when planning the leave to ensure a seamless transition.

In summary, the new regulations can be seen as a step in the right direction. They offer uncomplicated and flexible handling of care services, which benefits many people in need of care and their relatives.

The free hotline is available for questions and individual advice Saxony-Anhalt Consumer Center available on (0800) 100 37 11. Inquiries by email are also possible.