Private health insurance in Germany isn’t just about picking a plan—it’s about choosing long-term peace of mind. If you’re a freelancer, self-employed, or a civil servant exploring your options beyond public insurance (GKV), you’ve likely come across Die Bayerische and its BBL tariff. But is it truly the flexible, affordable solution it claims to be?
In this in-depth review, we take a closer look at the BBL (Business Budget Line) plan from Die Bayerische—examining its coverage, pricing, customer experience, and how it compares to other private insurers like Debeka and Ottonova.
What Is Die Bayerische’s BBL Tariff?
Die Bayerische is a private German insurance provider with roots dating back to 1858. Known for modernising the conservative image of insurance, it appeals especially to freelancers, young professionals, and digital nomads. Their BBL (Business Budget Line) tariff is a modular private health insurance plan designed for flexibility and customisation.
Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all packages, BBL allows you to build your own coverage: select your deductible, add dental or mental health coverage, choose your hospital stay preferences, and adjust based on your life stage or risk appetite.
What Does the BBL Plan Cover?
Standard Inclusions
- Inpatient and outpatient treatment
- Access to specialists and hospitals without referral
- Basic dental and vision services
Optional Add-Ons
- Advanced dental coverage for implants, crowns, and professional cleanings
- Private hospital room and treatment by chief physician
- Mental health support, psychotherapy, and alternative therapies
- Travel health insurance and maternity packages
Digital Tools & Services
- Mobile app for uploading invoices, managing reimbursements, and tracking policy details
- Telemedicine access through partner platforms
- Wellness and fitness app integrations that reward preventive care
Pricing: What Does BBL Cost?
BBL operates on a risk-based pricing model, where your premium depends on:
- Entry age
- Health condition at sign-up
- Lifestyle habits (e.g., smoking, exercise)
- Chosen deductible and optional benefits
Real-World Pricing Examples
- Freelancer (32 years old, non-smoker): ~€380/month with mid-level coverage
- Beamter (civil servant): Tariff is optimised for Beihilfe reimbursement
- Young family: Child coverage is available at low or no additional cost in some packages
Cost-Saving Options
- Higher deductibles to reduce monthly payments
- Claim-free bonuses
- Subsidies for preventive services like gym memberships and health coaching
Pros and Cons of the BBL Tariff
Benefits
- Fully customisable based on individual needs
- Highly affordable for younger professionals
- Appeals to freelancers, creatives, and digital-first users
- Good transparency and customer communication
Limitations
- Less brand recognition than Debeka or Allianz
- Fewer physical service centres, especially in rural areas
- Mobile app is functional but lacks polish compared to competitors like Ottonova
Who Should Choose BBL?
Ideal For:
- Freelancers and self-employed professionals who want tax-deductible private health insurance
- Civil servants looking for Beihilfe-compatible tariffs
- Digitally-savvy individuals who prefer handling everything via app
Not Recommended For:
- Elderly applicants with pre-existing conditions
- Short-term expats (under 24 months in Germany)
- Families that require comprehensive dental and vision coverage for children
Real User Reviews and Feedback
Positive Experiences
- Fast claims processing for routine medical visits
- Transparent onboarding and tariff explanations
- Lower-than-average annual premium increases
Common Complaints
- App has occasional bugs and lacks English-language support
- Delays in complex reimbursement cases
- Deductible rules can be confusing at first glance
What Do Experts and Brokers Say?
Rankings & Ratings
- Solid price-performance scores from independent agencies like Franke & Bornberg
- Seen as a “disruptor” PKV provider targeting younger demographics
- Moderate praise from Stiftung Warentest, especially for stability
Broker Advice
- Ideal if you’re under 40, healthy, and value premium flexibility
- Use caution when comparing tariffs—deductibles and exclusions vary widely
- Brokers often recommend BBL for people wanting control over costs without overpaying for unneeded extras
Unique and Often Overlooked Features
Sustainability Focus
Die Bayerische integrates ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles in its business and offers products that reflect sustainability values.
Child-Friendly Packages
Some BBL plans include free or heavily discounted coverage for children, including preventive bonuses for newborn screening and dental checkups.
Mental Health Coverage
Unlike many insurers, Die Bayerische’s BBL offers psychotherapy coverage, digital mindfulness programs, and mental wellness app access as optional extras.
Addressing Customer Concerns
“Is a small insurer like Die Bayerische reliable?”
Yes. It is regulated by BaFin, has a long history, and demonstrates financial stability.
“Do I really have to pay everything upfront?”
Yes, but the app allows for quick reimbursement. You can also request partial prepayment arrangements with some providers.
“BBL sounds complicated.”
While customisable, the structure is transparent. A broker can help you select the best combination for your situation without the overwhelm.
How BBL Compares to Alternatives
Die Bayerische vs Ottonova
- Ottonova: superior digital tools, but more expensive
- BBL: cheaper, with reasonable digital capabilities
Die Bayerische vs Debeka
- Debeka: strong choice for Beamte with long-term dependability
- BBL: better fit for freelancers and first-time PKV users
PKV vs GKV
- PKV: risk-based, with better benefits and customisation
- GKV (e.g. TK, AOK): income-based, includes family members, more straightforward
Lesser-Known But Important Considerations
Portability and Cancellation
- You must give notice several months in advance to cancel PKV
- Leaving Germany? Ensure you have valid international insurance lined up
Long-Term Cost Trends
- Die Bayerische has a moderate track record of price stability
- Entering younger helps secure lower long-term costs
Direct Signup vs Broker
- Signing via a broker can help you unlock hidden tariffs or bonus offers not visible on public platforms
Mistakes to Avoid
- Picking the lowest premium without checking what’s actually covered
- Misunderstanding deductible structures—you might pay more than expected
- Believing PKV is always better—it depends on age, income, and health
Final Verdict: Is BBL Right for You?
Die Bayerische’s BBL is one of the most flexible and forward-looking PKV plans in Germany today. It’s ideal for freelancers, young professionals, and civil servants who want private coverage with room to grow. It’s not for everyone—but if you’re looking for an affordable, modular, and modern insurance experience, it’s definitely worth considering.
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