Who is entitled to a premium reduction?

How do premium reductions work?

The cantonal OASI offices pay health insurers directly. The advantage is that the premium reduction is direct. The health insurance bill for policyholders is then cheaper.

2. Calculating premium reductions: who is entitled to a premium reduction?

How the premium reduction is calculated varies from canton to canton. The Swiss Conference of the Cantonal Ministers of Public Heath provides an overview of the calculation basis for each canton (not available in English).

For some cantons, you can check online to find out how much of a reduction you can request. Further information is available from the relevant office in your canton.

As a rule, the following aspects are taken into account in all cantons:

• Income

• Assets

• Family circumstances

The cantons calculate entitlement based on tax values. In most cases, your tax statements from the last two years are used as the basis for calculating the reduction. For those subject to withholding tax, tax statements from the last three years are often taken into account.

The calculation for the entitlement to a premium reduction lags behind the current income situation. For this reason, it may make sense for you to check your entitlement to reduced premiums on an annual basis.

3. Who informs me about my right to a premium reduction?

If you have basic insurance, your canton of residence must inform you of your right to a premium reduction. Many cantons inform you directly if you are eligible.

In other cantons, you must apply for a premium reduction yourself. In some cantons, you will need to submit a new application each year. In case of doubt, you can register with the relevant office for your canton and apply for a premium reduction.

4. How do I apply for a premium reduction?

The best way to proceed is as follows:

1. Find out about the requirements from the competent authority in your canton of residence. Some cantons allow you to apply for reduced premiums online.

2. Submit your application in a timely manner, taking into account any deadlines. It may take several months to check your application.

3. If your application is approved, the canton will notify you. Plus, the money will be transferred to the relevant health insurer.

4. After approval, the premium reduction will be visible on the bill – or you will receive a credit for overpaid premiums with your next bill.

5. Cantonal premium reductions: Where should I register?

The relevant cantonal authorities can be found here (most of the following links are not available in English):