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Family Allowance: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how to claim monthly payments for your children in Switzerland and understand the rules for eligibility and applications.

Family Allowance is a monthly financial support system designed to help parents manage the ongoing costs of raising children.

Who it's for

This scheme is specifically for parents who have children under the age of 16. However, the eligibility extends further if your child is between the ages of 16 and 25, provided they are currently engaged in studies. If your child meets these age or educational criteria, you may be eligible to receive support.

What you get

The benefit consists of a regular monthly payment for every child you have. This payment is intended to be a recurring supplement to your household income to assist with the daily expenses associated with childcare and upbringing.

What it costs you

There is no direct monetary cost or application fee required to access this benefit. The process is managed through your workplace, as your employer is responsible for processing the application on your behalf. You will need to provide the necessary documentation requested by your employer's payroll or human resources department to facilitate this.

The catch to know

It is important to understand that this is not a benefit that both parents can receive simultaneously for the same child. To prevent duplicate payments, the rules state that only one parent can claim the allowance for a single child. You should coordinate with your partner to decide which parent will be the primary claimant to ensure the application is handled correctly.

How to apply

  1. Verify that your child meets the age requirements or is currently enrolled in a recognized study program.
  2. Reach out to your employer or your company's human resources department to request the necessary paperwork.
  3. Complete the application forms provided by your employer, ensuring all required details about your child and your employment are included.
  4. Submit the completed documentation back to your employer so they can process it through the relevant Cantonal Compensation Funds.