erstattungsfähige

Erstattungsfähige is a German adjective describing something that can be reimbursed or refunded. It is formed from erstatten (to reimburse) and the suffix -fähig (able to). The term is used to indicate that a cost, expense, amount, or claim qualifies for repayment under a policy, contract, or regulation.

The adjective is commonly attached to nouns such as Kosten, Ausgaben, Beträge or Forderungen. Typical phrases include erstattungsfähige Kosten, erstattungsfähige Ausgaben, erstattungsfähige Beträge or erstattungsfähige Forderungen. The exact ending of the adjective depends on the gender, number and case of the noun it modifies; for example, die erstattungsfähige Forderung (feminine singular) and die erstattungsfähigen Kosten (plural). Usage is centered on eligibility criteria defined by insurers, governments, employers, or vendors, including required documentation, time limits, and any exclusions or caps. The term does not express an amount or a guarantee of payment; it denotes potential eligibility.

In practice, erstatungsfähige items appear in insurance and welfare contexts, travel or medical expense reimbursements, tax relief programs, or corporate reimbursement policies. It is important to distinguish erstatungsfähig from related terms such as erstattungspflichtig (obliged to reimburse) or erstattungsberechtigt (entitled to reimbursement), which convey different rights or obligations. Documentation, proof of purchase, and adherence to program rules are typically necessary to determine whether an expense is erstattungsfähig. See also Kostenerstattung and Rückerstattung for related concepts.