Self-Employed Insurance Guide
Understanding your insurance requirements and options as a self-employed person in Switzerland. From mandatory coverage to recommended protection.
Mandatory Insurance
Health Insurance (KVG/LAMal)
Mandatory basic health insurance with accident coverage
- Must include accident coverage if not covered by employer
- Higher premiums due to accident inclusion
- Can choose any insurance provider
- Same coverage as regular basic insurance
Accident Insurance (UVG/LAA)
Mandatory if working more than 8 hours per week
- Coverage for work-related accidents
- Coverage for non-work accidents
- Daily allowance in case of disability
- Long-term disability coverage
Recommended Coverage
Loss of Earnings Insurance
Protection against income loss due to illness/accident
- Coverage from day 1 or after waiting period
- Flexible coverage amount (50-80% of income)
- Choice of waiting periods to adjust premiums
- Tax-deductible premiums
Business Liability Insurance
Protection against third-party claims
- Coverage for business-related damages
- Legal protection in liability cases
- Professional negligence coverage
- Product liability coverage
Legal Protection Insurance
Coverage for legal disputes
- Contract dispute coverage
- Employment law protection
- Debt collection assistance
- Legal consultation services
Pension Options
Pillar 3a
Tax-privileged retirement savings
- Higher contribution limits (up to CHF 34,128)
- Tax deductions on contributions
- Flexible investment options
- Can be used for business investment
BVG/LPP (Optional)
Voluntary occupational pension
- Similar benefits to employed persons
- Tax advantages on contributions
- Death and disability coverage
- Flexible contribution options
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need accident insurance if I'm self-employed?
- If you're self-employed and work more than 8 hours per week, you should either include accident coverage in your basic health insurance or take out separate accident insurance (UVG/LAA). The choice depends on your risk profile and premium considerations.
- How does loss of earnings insurance work for self-employed?
- Loss of earnings insurance replaces your income if you can't work due to illness or accident. You can choose the coverage amount (typically 50-80% of income) and waiting period. Longer waiting periods mean lower premiums. The premiums are tax-deductible as business expenses.
- What pension options do I have as a self-employed person?
- As a self-employed person, you have access to enhanced Pillar 3a contributions (up to CHF 34,128 annually) and can voluntarily join a Pillar 2 pension fund. Both options offer tax advantages and flexibility in contribution amounts.
- Can I get premium reduction for health insurance?
- Yes, self-employed individuals can apply for premium reduction based on their taxable income. The calculation may consider business losses and actual income rather than revenue. Each canton has different thresholds and processes.
- What insurance do I need when hiring employees?
- When hiring employees, you must provide accident insurance (UVG/LAA), contribute to their pension fund (BVG/LPP), and ensure other social security coverage. Consider employer's liability insurance and review your business liability coverage.
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