AOK health insurance, explained
Germany's largest public health insurer, with regional branches across the country. Strong on coverage breadth and local service.
Why people choose AOK
Best for: Anyone who values strong regional service and a familiar nationwide name. Strongest fit for families and clients outside metro areas.
Founded 1884 (consolidated structure since 1992)
Established 1884 (consolidated structure since 1992). ≈27 million members across regional AOK branches.
Zusatzbeitrag (2026): 2.47% to 3.50% by region
On top of the 14.6% base rate, every Krankenkasse charges its own Zusatzbeitrag. Each regional AOK sets its own, from 2.47% in Rheinland-Pfalz and Saarland to 3.50% at AOK Nordost. The statutory average is 2.9%, and TK puts what Krankenkassen actually charge at 3.0%.
Standard public benefits
Same statutory benefit catalogue as every public insurer — Krankenkassen mainly differ on service and additional benefits.
Switching is easy
You can switch Krankenkassen with two months' notice. Cancellation is straightforward and benefits continue uninterrupted.
AOK at a glance
Feature
AOK
Stats
Choose a plan to compare
Earning above €77,400? You do not have to join AOK at all
The 2026 income threshold is €77,400 gross a year. Above it, and for the self-employed and civil servants at any income, private health insurance is an option: the premium follows your age and the cover you choose instead of your salary, and your employer still pays half. Sixty seconds tell you whether you qualify.
Common questions
Related guides
Two more pages that come up most often when people are at this stage.