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Step 2: How Can I Get an Overview of AHV/AVS, Tax and Insurance Matters?

The start of student life brings with it new financial obligations. We have compiled a list of the most important ones.

AHV/AVS

Every resident of Switzerland who is gainfully employed is insured in the AHV/AHS (Old Age and Survivors' Insurance) and is obliged to make contributions. Gainfully employed persons begin paying as of January 1 after the year in which they reach 17 years of age; non-gainfully employed persons begin paying on January 1 after the year in which they turn 20.

If you reach the end of the year in which you turn 20 but remain non-gainfully employed, you must then start paying the minimum compulsory contribution of CHF 475.-- per annum to the AHV/AVS.

Contributions to the BVG/LPP (Occupational Retirement, Survivors' and Disability Pension Plans)

If, after reaching the end of the year in which you turn 17, you have an annual salary of more than CHF 20'880.-- that is subject to AHV/AVS contributions, this also becomes subject to BVG/LPP contributions.

Covering the Risks

  • Health insurance: You are obliged to be covered by a health insurance plan. The cantons grant a variety of discounted premiums.
  • Accident insurance:As a student, you are automatically insured against accidents that occur in the university buildings, on the way to them, or in connection with educational events. Additional insurance to cover accidents outside of these instances must be arranged separately.
  • Private liability insurance: This covers loss or damage that you cause to other persons' property or assets. Private liability insurance costs between CHF 100.-- and CHF 150.-- per annum for cover of up to CHF 5 million.
  • Household insurance: This covers all moveable assets that belong in your student residence. It protects against the financial consequences of fire, theft and flood.

So now you know the obligations that go with your new independence. In the next step, we'll show you how you can also make a start today on becoming wealthy later.  

  Step 3: How Can I Lay the Foundation for a Financially Secure Future While I'm Still Studying?

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