Life in Switzerland is expensive, and even more so if you have several children. But will the government give you financial assistance?
Yes, there are a number of ways in which large families get support from the Swiss government.
First: The family allowance
No matter whether you have one child or many, you are entitled to this allowance if you are employed or self-employed, or if you do not work and your taxable income is low (the threshold figure varies from canton to canton).
In 2024, Swiss MPs have approved the move to raise the amount of financial assistance paid for children and those under 25 who are pursuing training or higher education.
The Social Security and Public Health Commission of the Council of States decided that in future, child allowances must amount to at least 250 francs and training allowances to at least 300 francs a month — 50 francs over the current federal guideline.
Currently, 17 cantons pay more than the federal minimum — in Geneva, for instance family allowance is 311 francs per child, and educational allowance amounts to 415 francs.
In Vaud, these payments are 340 and 440; in Zug 300 for each; and in Basel-City 275 for child allowance and 325 for education.
The cantons where these benefits exceed the federal minimum will not need to increase their allowance, while all the others will have to meet the new threshold.
READ ALSO: What benefits are you entitled to in Switzerland if you have children?
But that’s not all – if you have many children (three or more), more money will come your way.
For instance, financial help with health insurance costs.
If you have a large family, you will likely receive health insurance subsidies, as both a large number of children and low income can qualify a family for premium reductions.
Eligibility, subsidy amounts, and application procedures vary by canton, so families should contact their cantonal authorities to determine their specific entitlements and learn how to apply for these subsidies annually.
If you have three or more children but are not eligible for government help because of your income, you can still take advantage of cheaper health insurance premiums.
That’s because, according to Moneyland consumer platform, a number of health insurance providers offer discounts for large families, starting with the second or third child.
You can ask your regular provider what their family rates are, or shop around for others that offer lower premiums for households with several children.
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And then there is help with rents
Large families can also be entitled for housing allowances.
The exact amounts are determined by the cantonal social welfare system and is based on both income and assets.
If you have a big family and low income, you may be eligible for housing support or other social benefits to help with rent and living costs.
For all of the above, social assistance office in your municipality can provide information and help.
And it doesn’t matter whether you are a Swiss or foreign national – any legal resident of Switzerland is entitled to these benefits.
