Reform of supplementary benefits - assets reduce benefits
The introduction of an (asset) entry threshold and a reimbursement obligation in the event of inheritance affect the entitlement to benefits of the persons concerned.
Access to supplementary benefits (EL) will now be more difficult for people who have a certain amount of assets. From next year, a (wealth) entry threshold, stricter rules for asset depletion and a reimbursement obligation in the event of inheritance are planned. As a result, individuals will only be entitled to supplementary benefits with assets of less than CHF 100,000, while married couples will be entitled to CHF 200,000. In the event of an inheritance of more than CHF 40,000, the supplementary benefits received from the estate over the last ten years must be reimbursed. This greater consideration of assets is one of the key aspects of the EL reform. Other important provisions are explained below.
Measures adopted
In order to ensure that supplementary benefits continue to function in the future, Parliament has decided to reform supplementary benefits, which will come into force on January 1, 2021. The level of benefits is to be maintained.
The most important measures of the EL reform at a glance:
Increase in rent maximums and adjustment of service charge and heating cost flat rate
Greater consideration of assets
New regulation for children's living expenses
Offsetting of 80% of the spouse's income
Health insurance premium: Actual expenditure
Adjustment of the EL calculation for nursing home residents
Reduction of the EL minimum amount
Measures for older unemployed people
You can find a detailed overview of all the measures listed in our PDF document.
