Those who do not obtain General Health Insurance (GSS) gradually accumulate debt. People with growing SGK debts often find it very difficult to pay. You must apply for General Health Insurance and pay a modest premium for this coverage. Citizens who do not apply may face debts up to 12,000 TRY. Unpaid debts can be restructured through an SGK debt restructuring program. To use this option, you must complete the SGK debt restructuring application form, which can be filled out online.
Applications for General Health Insurance restructuring for 2017 were accepted either online or at SGK offices. If you have SGK debt, you can restructure it by splitting the balance into installments. For example, it can be possible to restructure a 20,000 TRY debt so that you pay about 53 TRY per month. Although you may not regain full coverage immediately, with a payment of around 4,000 TRY you can access certain health services.
General Health Insurance Payments
Debts that are restructured can be paid in 12 monthly installments. If you pay your debt in full, you can immediately benefit from health services and regain SGK coverage. If you choose to pay in installments, you will be required to pay a small monthly amount over 12 months. Since 2017, the GSS restructuring process no longer requires submitting an income declaration as it previously did.
Under the system applied since April, installment plans are offered without strict consideration of income status. Additionally, you may benefit from amnesties granted for SGK debts. These amnesties sometimes forgive the entire debt or a portion of it.
To learn about amnesties for General Health Insurance, follow official announcements and news. If an amnesty is announced and you meet its eligibility requirements, you can take advantage of it. Those who wish to benefit from an amnesty can apply at their provincial General Health Insurance directorates.
What Is the Income Test for Restructuring?
The income test was no longer used for SGK restructuring as of 2017. Previously, this system included an income assessment that determined the restructuring terms. Income tests were conducted by the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Services (Social Assistance and Solidarity units).
The income test evaluates household income. Per-capita income is calculated based on the total household income and size, and restructuring terms were applied accordingly. If the per-capita income was equal to or less than one-third of the minimum wage, the state covered that household’s insurance costs.