Insurance and pensions
How do I insure my company properly? The world of pensions and insurance for start-ups is colourful - and sometimes a little confusing. Despite the hurdles, it is important that start-ups deal with these issues at an early stage in order to move into the future in a targeted and secure manner. Helvetia provides answers to the most important questions - on this page, in the free IFJ course or in an expert discussion.
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The advantages are obvious: a sole proprietorship or a general partnership can be set up easily. In addition, no minimum capital is required. But what about social insurance? The OASI checks the legal form when you register. If the company is categorised as a partnership, the following must be taken into account:
-
Compulsory:
- OASI/DI (1st pillar)
- Family allowance (FZ)
-
Voluntary:
- Pension fund (2nd pillar)
- Occupational accident (UVG)
- Non-occupational accident (NBU)
- Daily sickness benefits
- Tied pension provision (pillar 3a)
-
Not possible:
- Unemployment insurance (ALV)
In the case of an Ltd. or LLC , occupational pension provision is organised via a pension fund. This is not the case for partnerships: Entrepreneurs must organise their own pension provision. Self-employed persons can pay 20% of their annual income up to a maximum of CHF 36,288 into pillar 3a (as at 2025). However, self-employed persons who wish to continue to be insured in a pension fund can also join the pension fund of their professional association or the BVG supplementary pension scheme.
In the case of a limited liability company (LLC) or public limited company (Ltd.), the staff are automatically categorised as employees for social insurance purposes - including the owner. The following insurances are therefore mandatory.
- OASI/DI ((1st pillar)
- Family allowance (FZ)
- Unemployment insurance (ALV)
- Pension fund - from an annual income of CHF 22,860 (as at 2025)
Important: Compulsory insurance - at the earliest on 1 January after reaching the age of 17 (risk contribution for death and disability) and for retirement pensions at the earliest on 1 January after reaching the age of 24. January 1 after reaching the age of 24 (savings contribution) - Occupational accident (UVG)
- Non-occupational accident (NBU) - from 8 hours of work for the employer per week
- Daily sickness benefits - if prescribed by collective labour agreement
The mandatory pension scheme always provides minimum benefits. It is therefore worth checking from the outset where these may be inadequate and should be supplemented over and above the basic contract, particularly with regard to the pension fund, accident insurance and daily sickness benefits. Even if private pension provision - i.e. the 3rd pillar - is voluntary, it is worthwhile. The private 3rd pillar can be used to close further gaps in cover and protect dependants, partners and home ownership. Tax advantages can also be utilised. Saving for your own retirement is also aimed at a self-determined life in old age
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Customised solutions for specific risks
Whether a partnership or a corporation, other types of insurance are of central importance for both forms. It is important that the different needs of the start-up are always analysed and tailored solutions are created. An overview of which insurance policies could be relevant for your start-up:
Property insurance covers damage caused by unforeseen events to your movable goods, equipment and IT systems.
Technical insurance protects you against the financial consequences of damage to equipment and machinery. It can be flexibly adapted to the specific machines.
Buildings insurance covers damage to the building and its surroundings caused by storms, fire and other unforeseen events.
Building liability reliably protects your business from the financial consequences of liability claims if, for example, the postman slips on your property or a roof tile falls on someone else`s car.
Public and professional liability protects your company if third parties are injured by you, your employees or your products.
Legal protection provides comprehensive cover for your company - be it for legal advice or by covering the costs of disputes in court.
Transport insurance covers damage caused to goods during transport. This also includes protection during loading, unloading and reloading as well as at trade fairs.
Assistance provides financial cover for companies if journeys cannot be made or are made too late, a premature return journey becomes necessary and the company car is damaged or breaks down.
Every company is unique - and so are its insurance needs. Which insurance policies are important for your company and what should you pay particular attention to? Find out in just 5 minutes. The insurance check for SMEs provides you with valuable recommendations quickly and easily. Regardless of whether you are setting up your own company or have already been operating successfully for some time.
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