A fund built by the workforce, for the workforce
Since 1949, the Sterbekasse der Belegschaft der Saarstahl AG has provided a Sterbegeld to the families of insured members from Werk Völklingen and Werk Burbach.
Founded in 1949 by colleagues, for colleagues
The Sterbekasse der Belegschaft der Saarstahl AG was established in 1949 by employees of the Völklingen ironworks and its Burbach site, at a time when a fast, dependable death benefit made a real difference to a bereaved family's immediate finances.
That founding purpose has not changed. The association exists to grant a Sterbegeld upon the death of an insured member — nothing more, and nothing less. Over the decades it has grown alongside the workforce it serves, while keeping its original, community-based character.
A mutual association, not a commercial insurer
The fund operates as a Versicherungsverein auf Gegenseitigkeit — a mutual insurance association recognised under Section 53 of the German Insurance Supervision Act (Versicherungsaufsichtsgesetz, VAG).
Small, focused structure
Unlike large commercial insurers, the association is organised specifically around the Saarstahl workforce of Werk Völklingen and Werk Burbach.
No field sales force
The fund does not employ door-to-door or commission-based sales agents, which keeps administrative costs lower for the benefit of members.
Member-oriented
With more than 18,000 members, decisions are guided by the interests of the membership rather than external shareholders.
What guides how we work
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Personal contact Members and their families can reach a real person at our Völklingen office rather than a call centre.
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Timely handling Claims are processed without unnecessary delay, recognising that families often need support quickly.
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Clear information We aim to explain our purpose and processes plainly, and to direct people to the right contact for specifics.
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Financial discipline As a not-for-profit mutual association, contributions are managed conservatively to protect long-term stability for members.
This page describes the general history, structure, and principles of the association for informational purposes. It is not a legal or financial description of any specific membership, contract, or benefit. For current terms, please contact our office directly.