From next year, the annual service fee for the e-card will be significantly more expensive. In the Budget Accompanying Act 2025, it was decided that 25 Euro instead of the previously planned 14.65 euros. This contribution is levied once a year and helps to co-finance the benefits of statutory health insurance. As before, the amount will be collected on 15 November for the following year, depending on the situation, either directly via payroll accounting or via other agencies such as the AMS or the ÖGK.
In addition, the amendment to the law also brings a significant innovation for pensioners with itself. Until now, they were exempt from the e-card service fee, but this exemption expires at the end of 2026. From November 2026, the service fee will therefore also be levied on this group of people for the first time. The collection is automatic via the pension benefit. However, the exception remains unchanged for persons who are exempt from the prescription fee.
