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How to use and get the most from your private health insurance

How to use private health insurance (PKV) in Germany: activate coverage, find your documents, pay your monthly price, submit claims, earn cashback, change your plan, add family members, and cancel your policy.

Written by Justina

Private health insurance (PKV) is used through your Feather account and the Hallesche4u app. Your documents and digital insurance card are available in your account, and your monthly price is collected by direct debit on the first day of each month. Claims are submitted in the Hallesche4u app and processed within around 4 weeks. The Standard, Plus, and Premium plans with no deductible include monthly cashback and a no-claim bonus. Plan upgrades, downgrades, family additions, and cancellation are all requested from your private health insurance policy page.

What happens once my private health insurance coverage starts, and where do I find my documents?

  • Your coverage is activated

    Once your policy is confirmed, you’ll find all key documents in your Feather policy page, such as the Confirmation of Coverage and tax information, uploaded automatically during tax season.

  • Digital insurance card

    You can access your digital health insurance card through your account and present it during medical appointments. A physical card is also available. You receive one automatically if you gave a German address when signing up, and otherwise you can request it on the Hallesche4U app once your address is up to date.


How are payments for my private health insurance handled?

  • Automatic payments by direct debit

    Your monthly price is deducted from your bank account on the 1st day of each month. Payments begin once your coverage is active. If you’re employed, your employer reimburses their share through your monthly payroll.

  • Manual payments available

    Prefer to pay by bank transfer? You can skip the direct debit setup during your application and pay manually each month. Just keep in mind: choosing manual payments means you won’t be eligible for the monthly cashback bonuses.


How do cashback and no-claim bonuses work on my private health insurance plan?

The Standard, Plus, and Premium private health insurance plans with no deductible include a monthly cashback and a no-claim bonus. If you submit no claims for a full calendar year, you receive an additional bonus on top of the monthly cashback.

Invoices remain valid for 2 years, so you can collect them and submit them only when your bills for the year exceed €1,200, which keeps you eligible for the no-claim bonus. Annual checkups and dental cleanings covered by the Standard, Plus, and Premium plans do not usually affect your cashback.


How should I use my coverage?

  • Check your benefits

    Review your coverage details in your Feather account to see what’s included in your plan.

  • Submit and track claims

    Submit claims directly through the Hallesche4u app. Download the app, register, and go to the claims section to upload your invoice. Most claims are processed within 4 weeks. You'll then find a claim statement explaining the reimbursement within the app.

  • Preventive care

    Use annual checkups and dental cleanings covered by your plan. On the Standard, Plus, and Premium plans, these don't usually affect your cashback.

  • Get documents anytime

    Need paperwork for unemployment benefits, parental allowance, or your taxes?

    Simply log in to your Feather account and download what you need from your private health insurance policy page — or request additional documents directly through your policy page if you don’t see them listed.


How can I change my private health insurance plan or add family members?

  • Upgrade or downgrade anytime

    Request changes to your policy through the "Manage this policy" button in your Feather account. With just a few clicks, you’ll get a new quote.

    • Short-term plan: Upgrade without health questions when you get permanent residency or after 5 years of your policy starting.

    • Standard and Plus plans: Upgrade without health questions after 2, 5, or 7 years. At other times, you might need to answer health questions, which could affect your price. Premium is our highest plan, so there's currently no upgrade from it.

  • Add family members

    Get a quote and add your spouse or children easily. Some plans let you cover newborns for free for a limited time.

  • Canceling

    You can cancel your policy through your policy page in your Feather account.


How can I get more value from my private health insurance policy?

  • Find trusted doctors

    Use online directories and filter by private insurance to find high-quality care with shorter wait times.

  • Referral bonuses

    Join referral campaigns where you can earn up to €700 in bonuses for recommending our services to others. Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on new offers.

  • Support at every step

    Our English-speaking support team is here for you — whether you need help with documents, changing plans, or understanding your coverage.

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