Respite Care: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn if you qualify for financial support to hire a substitute caregiver and take a necessary break from caregiving duties.
Respite Care provides financial support to help caregivers take a break by hiring someone to step in and provide care temporarily.
Who it's for
This is for individuals who have been providing care for someone else for at least six months and find that they need a period of rest or a temporary break from their caregiving duties.
What you get
You can receive up to €1,612 per year to help pay for a substitute caregiver (sometimes called Urlaubsvertretung) to look after your loved one while you take time off.
What it costs you
There is no direct fee for the benefit, but you must complete the application process before your planned break begins.
The catch to know
You are not eligible to use this scheme during the first six months of your caregiving journey; you must meet the six-month minimum requirement before you can access these funds.
How to apply
- Confirm you have been providing care for at least six months.
- Contact your insurance provider to discuss your need for a break.
- Submit an application before your intended time off starts.