ÖGK vice chairman Huss warns companies to pay social security contributions for health benefits for the insured
The public purse is once again providing a three-month delay to companies in need. These days, the interest-free deferral of taxes and social security contributions was extended for the third time: This time from March 31st to June 30th. It is about 5.3 billion euros in taxes due in finance and 1.7 billion in social contributions with the ÖGK.
The Vice Chairman of the Austrian Health Insurance Fund, Andreas Huss, has in principle “no problem” with the decision of the federal government. However, he raises concerns that the “wave of bankruptcies that he believes will only be delayed”.
ÖGK Vice Chairman Andreas Huss
In an interview with the KURIER, Huss said: “It doesn't make a huge difference. You could have saved yourself that. Because at some point the moment of truth will come. And the companies that have not been able to pay until now are finding it extremely difficult. Three additional months won't help either. “
Insured's money
Huss recalls that the deferred SV contributions are actually money from the more than seven million insured persons. “At some point you have to tell companies in no uncertain terms that you are working with the contributions and property of the insured. The money is there to pay for health services. “
In this respect, the ÖGK vice insists that “we should have the chance to get our money back.”
Relatively generous installment payment models are planned for the ÖGK as well as the Finanz starting July 1st. If companies are unable to pay the installments including interest on arrears of 1.36 percent, the insolvency bank threatens after reminders have been issued. Huss: “We are legally obliged to do so.”
ÖGK General Director Bernhard Wurzer
He no longer wants to predict how big the financial hole at the ÖGK will be this year. Huss had to take a lot of criticism last year because, contrary to his warnings, the cash register managed to break the black. But that was mainly due to the fact that the ÖGK saved itself expect more than 300 million. Reason: Many people did not go to the doctor for fear of Corona.
The General Director of the ÖGK, Bernhard Wurzer, drew what he saw as a positive balance sheet on the first year of the new organization. The merger of the previous nine regional health insurance funds accelerated decisions and the ÖGK passed its practical test. Wurzer expects a deficit of 160 million euros by the end of 2021 and hopes for help from Minister of Health Rudolf Anschober. “Then we'll see what he gets out of the finance minister for us,” said Wurzer.
