Betegeld

Betegeld is a term used in some Nordic and European welfare contexts to describe income replacement payments made to people who are temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury. The concept is typically part of a country's social security or health insurance system and aims to maintain financial stability and access to medical care during sick leave.

The definition and scope of betegeld vary by country. In some systems it is the official label for sickness benefits paid to insured workers, while in others it refers to a broader category that may include rehabilitation allowances or disability-related support. The specifics—eligibility, benefit level, and duration—are determined by national law and policy.

Eligibility generally requires being employed or insured for a minimum period, medical certification of illness or injury, and adherence to procedural requirements such as filing a claim and submitting medical documentation. Some programs impose waiting periods or require periodic medical reviews to maintain eligibility.

Benefit levels are usually a proportion of prior earnings, often subject to caps or tapering if other income is received. Payments are typically issued monthly and may be taxed or non-taxed depending on the jurisdiction. The duration of benefits varies with the length and severity of the illness and with policy rules, including possible transitions to longer-term supports.

Administration is typically handled by government agencies or social security bodies. Claimants may need medical certificates, earnings records, and sometimes rehabilitation commitments; appeals processes are usually available for denied claims.

See also: sickness benefit; social security; disability insurance.