On 27 September 2017, the German Federal Cabinet approved the maximum annual income basis for social security contributions for 2018. For pension and unemployment insurance, the maximum basis will be: EUR 78,000 for Western Federal States (old States); and EUR 69,600 for Eastern Federal States (new States). For health insurance and nursing insurance for disability and old age, the maximum annual basis will be EUR 53,100 for all Federal States. Pending final approval from the German Federal Council (upper house of parliament - Bundesrat), the changes apply from 1 January 2018.