I'm employed. What am I entitled to in case of illness?
In your first year of work, you are entitled to 6 weeks of full paid sick leave and then 4 weeks of half-paid sick leave. In the second working year, 8 weeks full and then 4 weeks half. Very important: If you become ill, inform your employer immediately! Staying away without excuses can lead to massive problems! You should also definitely check right away whether a doctor's confirmation is required from the first day - which is quite common.
What about the other half of the fee or when I've used up everything?
You can apply for the other half from the ÖGK in the form of sickness benefit, but this is slightly lower than your normal salary.
I injured myself in an accident at work. Is there anything to consider?
In the event of accidents at work, a separate 8 weeks are used for continued payment of pay and only then your own claim.
Am I entitled to supplements or the like while I am ill?
If you are legitimately absent (vacation, sick leave, etc.), you would also have to receive the same pay. This means that there would also have to be surcharges, Sunday or night supplement or public holiday, if your schedule had provided for them.
How do I apply for sickness benefit?
In principle, your employer should submit the necessary forms to the ÖGK of their own accord, you should contact the Contact ÖGK customer service:
And as a freelancer?
Sickness benefit! In principle, you will receive sickness benefit from the 4th day of illness, but you must apply for this yourself from the Austrian Health Insurance Fund - more here. However, in contrast to a real employee, this does not pay the full amount of your salary, but only 50% of your gross wage average of the last three months (attention: without KM money!). Be sure to get sick leave from the doctor and inform the employer, who must then send a payment confirmation.
However, the sickness benefit is only available if you work on a minor basis (485.85€ for 2022), are self-insured or insured with another body!
