Do you get a premium subsidy for your health insurance?
In short
If you have a low or middle income, your canton pays part of your health insurance premium.
How much and for whom is decided by the canton. For children it covers at least 80 percent, for young adults in training at least 50 percent.
Want to know more?
Who is entitled?
People in modest economic circumstances are entitled. What exactly that means is set by each canton. It mostly looks at income and assets from the tax return and at the size of the household.
For families there are clear minimum rules. For low and middle incomes the canton reduces children’s premiums by at least 80 percent and those of young adults in training by at least 50 percent.
How do you get the subsidy?
- Find the responsible office. The FOPH keeps a list of the cantonal offices for premium subsidies.
- Check whether you need an application. Some cantons subsidise automatically, others only on request.
- Watch the deadline. If you submit an application too late, you often lose the entitlement for the year entirely.
- Report changes. If your income drops sharply, for example after a separation or job loss, ask for a recalculation.
What does that mean in francs?
The children’s premium is already lower than the premium for adults. With a subsidy of 80 percent you pay only one fifth of it. With two children that quickly makes a few hundred francs a year.
What many people get wrong
- “That is only for social assistance.” Wrong. Many households with a middle income are entitled, especially families.
- “The canton will get in touch.” Not everywhere. In many cantons you have to submit an application yourself.
- “Anyone who gets a premium subsidy has to choose the cheapest insurer.” The federal government does not require that. Some cantons do calculate with a reference premium, though, and you pay for expensive models yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to apply for the premium subsidy?
That depends on the canton. In some cantons you receive it automatically based on tax data, in others you have to submit an application, often with a deadline. Ask the responsible office in your canton.
Do I get the money paid out?
No. The canton pays the contribution directly to your health insurer. Your premium bill becomes lower accordingly.
What has changed since 2026?
The counter-proposal to the premium relief initiative has been in force since 1 January 2026. Every canton must spend a minimum amount on premium subsidies and set a target for the maximum share of income that the premium may make up.
Does only my salary count?
The cantons mostly rely on the income and assets from the tax return. The limits differ from canton to canton.
What comes next?
Your path · My premium is rising Step 7 of 8
Your next step Can you exclude accident cover from your health insurance?Sources and date 2 October 2026
This page explains in general terms and does not replace personal advice. Law and your policy are what counts.