pojistné

Pojistné is a term used in Czech and Slovak to denote the payment made for insurance. It can refer to two related but distinct concepts: the premium paid to a private insurance company to obtain coverage, and the mandatory contributions to public insurance schemes such as health insurance or social security.

In private insurance, pojistné is the regular payment by the policyholder to the insurer in exchange for coverage described in the insurance contract. The amount and payment frequency depend on factors such as the type of insurance, the level of coverage, risk factors, age, and health. Failure to pay can lead to cancellation or suspension of the insurance.

In public insurance, pojistné refers to mandatory contributions to social or health insurance systems. These payments are typically calculated as a share of income and are made by employees, employers, and, in some cases, self-employed individuals. The contributions fund benefits such as healthcare, pensions, sickness benefits, and other social protections. Non-payment can result in penalties and potential loss of eligibility for benefits.

The term is commonly used with related words, including poistenec or pojistník (the insured or policyholder), poistenie or poistenie (the insurance), and poistná zmluva (the insurance contract). The exact rules and rates for pojistné vary by country and by the type of insurance.