2026 RatesEmployer Cost Calculator
Calculate the total cost to employ someone in Germany. See employer contributions for social security, pension, and other mandatory costs.
Employee Salary
Enter the employee's gross annual salary
Affects care insurance calculation
Varies by industry (0.5% - 3.0%). Average is ~1.3%
Training, equipment, 13th salary, etc.
Total Employer Cost
Full cost to employ (2026)
total annual cost
€60,862.50
€5,071.88/month
Cost Breakdown
Employer Contributions (Arbeitgeberanteil)
Contribution Ceilings 2026
Pension/Unemployment
€101,400
Health/Care
€69,750
Note: Accident insurance (Unfallversicherung) rates vary significantly by industry - from 0.5% in offices to over 3% in construction. The U1/U2 contributions (sick pay/maternity) also vary.
Employee Salary
Enter the employee's gross annual salary
Affects care insurance calculation
Varies by industry (0.5% - 3.0%). Average is ~1.3%
Training, equipment, 13th salary, etc.
Total Employer Cost
Full cost to employ (2026)
total annual cost
€60,862.50
€5,071.88/month
Cost Breakdown
Employer Contributions (Arbeitgeberanteil)
Contribution Ceilings 2026
Pension/Unemployment
€101,400
Health/Care
€69,750
Note: Accident insurance (Unfallversicherung) rates vary significantly by industry - from 0.5% in offices to over 3% in construction. The U1/U2 contributions (sick pay/maternity) also vary.
What's Included in Employment Costs?
Understanding the full cost of hiring in Germany
Gross Salary
The agreed salary before any deductions. This is what the employee sees.
Social Security
Employer contributions to pension, healthcare, unemployment, and other insurance.
Additional Costs
Holiday allowance, pension contributions, and any other mandatory payments.