Verletztengeld

Verletztengeld is a German term that translates to "injury benefit" or "accident pay." It is a type of social insurance payment provided to individuals who are unable to work due to an occupational accident or illness. This benefit is part of the German statutory accident insurance system, which is administered by statutory accident insurance institutions (Berufsgenossenschaften and Unfallkassen).

The primary purpose of verletztengeld is to compensate for lost income when an insured person is temporarily incapacitated for work as a direct result of a recognized workplace accident or occupational disease. It is intended to ensure that individuals can maintain a basic standard of living during their recovery period.

To be eligible for verletztengeld, several conditions must be met. Firstly, there must be a qualifying occupational accident or illness that has been officially recognized by the responsible accident insurance institution. Secondly, a medical professional must certify that the individual is unable to work due to this condition. The benefit is typically paid after a waiting period, often following the employer's continued salary payment (Entgeltfortzahlung).

The amount of verletztengeld is calculated based on the individual's previous earnings. It generally amounts to a percentage of the insured's average income before the incapacity began. The duration of the payments depends on the recovery process and is subject to medical assessment. If the incapacity extends beyond a certain period, other forms of social security benefits, such as disability pensions, may become relevant.