Which deductible is right for you?
In short
The deductible is the amount you pay yourself towards your health costs each year.
A high deductible lowers your premium and pays off if you rarely see a doctor. If you have regular costs, a low deductible is usually cheaper for you.
CalculatorWith your numbers
What does each deductible cost you?
Not sure? Choose what fits best and adjust the value afterwards.
This is what you pay yourself in a year, without premium.
How much premium you save with a higher deductible is shown by the federal premium calculator. It opens in a new window.
Your share of the costs, so deductible plus 10 percent co-payment up to CHF 700 at most. The premium always comes on top. Source FOPH, as of 2026.
Want to know more?
How does the deductible work?
Your compulsory health insurance only takes over the costs once you have carried part of them yourself. That part has two steps.
- Deductible. You pay all bills yourself up to this amount.
- Co-payment. After that you pay 10 percent of every bill until you have reached CHF 700.
The higher the deductible you choose, the lower your premium. You take on more risk and get a discount in return.
What does that mean in francs?
Assume your doctor bills add up to CHF 1,800 in a year.
| Deductible | Your costs |
|---|---|
| CHF 300 | CHF 300 deductible plus CHF 150 co-payment, CHF 450 in total |
| CHF 2500 | Everything yourself, CHF 1,800 in total |
Whether the high deductible still pays off depends on the difference in premium. If it saves you more than CHF 1,350 in premium a year, you still come out ahead with it.
When can I change my deductible?
You always change the deductible for the start of a calendar year. You cannot do it in the middle of the year. So tell your insurer in autumn and not just before the year ends. This applies to a switch to a higher and to a lower deductible.
Use the deductible calculator before you decide. It shows you from which costs which deductible pays off.
What many people get wrong
- “A high deductible means fewer benefits.” Wrong. The benefits of compulsory health insurance are the same at every deductible.
- “The deductible applies per doctor visit.” Wrong. It applies per calendar year.
- “I can change my deductible at any time.” Wrong. A change only applies from the start of the next calendar year.
Frequently asked questions
Which deductibles can I choose?
Adults choose between CHF 300, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500. For children the deductible is CHF 0 and can be raised up to CHF 600.
What is the difference between deductible and co-payment?
First you pay the whole deductible yourself. After that you pay 10 percent of further costs as a co-payment, for adults at most CHF 700 per year.
What is the most I can pay myself in a year?
The deductible plus the maximum co-payment. With a CHF 2500 deductible that is up to CHF 3200 a year, on top of the premium.
Does the premium count towards the deductible?
No. You always pay the premium. The deductible and co-payment only apply when you use services.
One more question
When does a new deductible apply?
A new deductible applies from the start of a calendar year. Tell your insurer in autumn and not only in December.
What comes next?
Your path · My premium is rising Step 3 of 8
Your next step How do you change your health insurer in Switzerland?Sources and date 1 October 2026
This page explains in general terms and does not replace personal advice. Law and your policy are what counts.