In Switzerland, businesses must protect themselves against various risks by purchasing appropriate insurance. Some are mandatory, while others are optional but highly recommended. Here's an overview of essential insurance policies for Swiss businesses, including legal requirements and optional options to ensure their long-term viability.
Compulsory social insurance
Every employer in Switzerland is required to subscribe to social insurance to protect their employees. These insurances include AHV (Old Age and Survivors' Insurance), IV (Individual Disability Insurance), APG (Agency for General Incapacity), unemployment insurance, family allowances, occupational pension plans, and accident insurance.
Old-age and survivors' insurance (AVS), Disability insurance (AI) and Loss of earnings allowances (APG)
The AVS provides a basic income upon retirement or death, while the AI provides support in the event of disability. The APG compensates for loss of earnings during military service, civil protection, or in the event of maternity/paternity. These insurances are mandatory for all employees.
Unemployment insurance (UI)
Unemployment insurance provides temporary income in the event of job loss. It is mandatory for employees, but self-employed workers are not eligible.
Family allowances
Employers are required to pay child benefits for each dependent child of their employees. This obligation applies to all businesses.
Occupational pension plan (LPP)
Occupational pension provision, or the 2nd pillar, complements the benefits provided by the AHV/AI (Old Age and Survivors' Insurance). It provides income in the event of retirement, disability, or death. This insurance is mandatory for employees earning an annual salary above CHF 22,050, with a ceiling of CHF 88,200. Employers may offer benefits supermandatory to improve coverage for their employees.
Accident insurance (LAA)
According to the Accident Insurance Act (LAA), employers must insure their employees against occupational and non-occupational accidents, as well as occupational diseases. This insurance covers salaries up to CHF 148,200 per year. Employees working less than eight hours per week are only covered for occupational accidents.
Insurance for businesses that are optional
In addition to compulsory insurance, companies can take out optional insurance to protect themselves against various specific risks.
Business liability insurance
This insurance covers damage caused to third parties by the company, its employees, or its products. For example, an accident caused by an employee on a construction site or a defective product can lead to costly claims. Civil liability protects the company against the financial consequences of such incidents. In some cantons and sectors, this insurance is mandatory.
Business legal protection
Legal disputes can arise at any time. Legal protection insurance helps a company defend its interests in the event of conflicts with customers, suppliers, or employees by covering legal and procedural costs.
Commercial insurance (things)
This insurance protects the company's physical assets, such as buildings, equipment, and inventory, against risks such as fire, theft, or water damage. It guarantees business continuity in the event of a disaster.
Cyber insurance
With digitalization With increasing risk, businesses are exposed to cyberattacks. Cyber insurance provides protection against data loss, cyber extortion, and business interruptions related to IT incidents. It is essential for businesses that rely on information technology.
Daily sickness benefit insurance
This insurance covers the payment of salaries in the event of an employee's prolonged absence due to illness. It allows the company to maintain employee income while controlling costs.
How to choose the right insurance for businesses?
The choice of insurance depends on the size of the company, its sector of activity and the specific risks to which it is exposed. It is recommended to carry out an in-depth analysis needs and compare available offers. Calling on an insurance expert can help develop suitable coverage, balancing costs and protection.
In conclusion, although some insurance is mandatory for businesses in Switzerland, it is wise to consider additional coverage for optimal protection. Regularly assessing insurance needs ensures that the company adapts to changes in its business and environment.
