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How to use and make the most of your private health insurance

A guide on how to make the most of your private health insurance policy

Justina avatar
Written by Justina
Updated this week

1. Getting started

  • Your coverage is actived

    Once your policy is confirmed, you’ll find all key documents in your Feather account:

    • Confirmation of Coverage

    • Letter for German Employers according to §257 and §61

    • Tax information: automatically uploaded during tax season

  • Digital insurance card

    Access your digital health insurance card in your account — just show it at your appointments. No physical card needed.


2. Payments

  • Automatic payments by direct debit

    Your monthly price is deducted from your bank account on the 1st 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 cashback or no-claim bonuses.

  • Cashbacks and bonuses

    Long-term plans offer monthly cashback and no-claim bonuses. If you don’t submit claims for a full year, you receive an extra bonus.

Tip: Invoices are valid for 2 years. Consider collecting them and submitting only if your bills exceed €1,200 in a year to stay eligible for no-claim bonuses.


3. Using your coverage

  • Check your benefits

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

  • Submit and track claims

    Upload your medical bills directly in your account. Most claims are processed within 1–3 weeks. The status of your bill then changes to "closed". You'll then find a document explaining the reimbursement.

  • Preventive care

    Use annual checkups and dental cleanings covered by your plan. Note: if a bill includes both preventive and non-preventive services, submitting it may 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 — or request additional documents directly through your account if you don’t see them listed.


4. Changing your Insurance Plan

  • Upgrade or downgrade anytime

    Request changes to your policy in your Feather account. With just a few clicks you’ll get a new quote.

    • Short-term plans: Upgrade without health questions when your residence permit renews or after 5 years in Germany.

    • Long-term 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.

  • 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 in your account.


5. Extra tips to get more from your 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 claims, changing plans, or understanding your coverage.

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