Are ergonomic office chairs mandatory? Are there any subsidies available?

Working from home is here to stay. Millions of Germans now work from home every day – and quickly realize that their old kitchen chair is bad for their backs. Ergonomic office chairs are the solution, but an expensive one.

The good news: You don't have to pay for everything yourself. There are laws that can help you and subsidies you can take advantage of. Here you'll find everything you need to know.

The truth about mandatory office chairs

Short answer: No, you don't have to buy a specific chair. But—and this is an important but—your employer has obligations that can help you. German occupational health and safety laws are on your side.

Your employer is obligated to provide ergonomic workstations. This is explicitly stated in several laws. Especially if you work at a computer screen every day, you are entitled to a chair that protects your back.

These laws protect you

Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV)
Your employer is required to provide ergonomic work equipment. This is not optional, but mandatory – your health and safety are paramount.

Regulations for computer workstations
Anyone who sits at a computer every day needs adjustable, back-friendly chairs. This rule also applies to your home office if you work from there regularly.

DGUV regulations of the accident insurance
The employers' liability insurance associations recommend height-adjustable chairs with backrests. Their goal: fewer back injuries, fewer sick days, lower costs.

What your office chair must be able to do

The laws are clear - your chair needs these basic functions:

• Height adjustable - for the correct working height
• Ergonomic shape - the seat and backrest must fit your body.
• Lumbar support - your lower back needs support
• Adjustable backrest - angle and depth should be adjustable
• Stable base - usually a five-foot cross with wheels

Important: Your boss doesn't have to buy the most expensive chair. But he must provide a chair that meets these requirements and keeps you healthy.

Your rights as an employee

You can complain if your chair is bad. The works council, supervisory authority, or employers' liability insurance association can help you with this. If your employer ignores the regulations, it can become expensive during inspections.

Your boss is required to regularly check that your workplace is healthy. If you complain of back pain due to a bad chair, they must take action. This isn't just fair – it's the law.

Funding: How to get money for your chair

Ergonomic chairs cost money, but you don't have to pay for everything yourself. There are various ways to get support – you just need to know where to ask.

Your employer as your first point of contact

Many companies voluntarily offer subsidies. Especially since the pandemic, employers have been supporting their employees working from home with equipment purchases. Asking costs nothing – and could save you hundreds of euros.

Three common funding models:

• The company buys the chair directly for you.
• They receive a subsidy and buy it themselves.
• There is a social plan with an office equipment budget.

Talk to your boss or HR department. Explain why you need an ergonomic chair. Emphasize that you will work more productively and healthily – that will convince them.

Insurance and rehabilitation support

Accident insurance covers health problems. If you have chronic back pain or other work-related ailments, the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) may partially cover the costs. For this, you will need a medical diagnosis and an application.

The social security system provides support for vocational rehabilitation. If your old chair has made you ill and you need a special ergonomic chair, assistance is available. The process involves contacting your doctor and the relevant workers' compensation board.

Take advantage of tax benefits

Home office chairs are often tax-deductible. You can claim the purchase as a business expense – this reduces your tax burden. Ask your tax advisor or use tax software.

The amount you save depends on your income. With a tax rate of 30%, you'll save €180 on a €600 chair. That makes the purchase significantly cheaper.

How to choose the right chair

Observe German standards

Only buy chairs with DIN EN 1335/1728 certification. This German standard guarantees that the chair meets minimum ergonomic requirements. Cheap imports without certification are often not worth the money.

Pay attention to adjustability. Seat height, backrest angle, seat depth, and armrest height must be adjustable. The more adjustable the chair is, the better it will suit you.

Recognizing quality

Test before you buy. Online reviews are helpful, but nothing replaces trying it out in person. Pay attention to lumbar support, overall comfort, and stability.

Invest in durability. A good chair lasts 8-10 years – calculate the annual cost. 300 euros for 5 years is only 60 euros annually for your back health.

Think holistically about the workplace

The chair and desk must be compatible. The correct height is crucial – your arms should rest comfortably on the keyboard. The monitor must also be positioned correctly.

Move around regularly. Even the best chair can't make sitting still for hours on end healthy. Get up every 30 minutes and walk around a bit.

Plan your budget wisely

Combine different subsidies. Employer contributions plus tax savings can drastically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Sometimes you end up paying only half the list price.

For chronic problems: consult your doctor. Medical justifications often unlock additional funding opportunities. Your family doctor or an occupational health physician can assist you with this.

Why the investment is worthwhile

Your back will thank you immediately. Less pain, less tension, less fatigue – you'll feel the improvement from day one. Productivity and well-being will increase noticeably.

In the long run, you'll save money. Sick days cost you money and career opportunities. Physiotherapy and doctor's visits are expensive. A good chair is preventative care that pays off.

Your employer also benefits. Fewer sick days, more satisfied employees, better productivity – that's why smart companies are happy to pay subsidies. Take advantage of this win-win situation.

Conclusion: Act now

Ergonomic office chairs are not legally required in Germany – but your right to a healthy workplace is. Take advantage of the laws, subsidies, and tax benefits available to you.

Talk to your employer about subsidies. Ask your health insurance provider about prevention programs. Find out about tax deductibility.

Invest in your health – it's your most valuable asset. A good chair isn't an expense, but an investment in pain-free, productive years of work. Your back will thank you.

It's time for a new chair. Your body can't wait until your old one is completely broken. Act today – for a healthier, more productive work life.