Already during the establishment of a company, it is important that you also think about the insurance of your company. There are certain insurances that you are obliged to take out. However, to ensure optimal protection at all times, additional insurances are recommended. Find out everything you need to know about the various company insurances in this article.
Which insurances are mandatory?
1. Social insurances (AHV/IV/EO/ALV)
A few days after the entry in the commercial register, you will receive a questionnaire from the compensation office of the responsible canton. This questionnaire is used to clarify whether or not your company is liable to pay contributions. The obligation to contribute begins when wages are paid to the compulsorily insured persons. Currently, the contribution amounts to 10.6 % of the gross salary, half of which must be paid by the employee.
In addition, contributions must also be paid for unemployment insurance (ALV) and the family compensation fund (FAK). The ALV contributions amount to a total of 2.2 % of the gross salary and are borne half by the employer and half by the employee. The FAK contributions vary from canton to canton and are usually paid by the employer.
2. Occupational pension plan (BVG)
The occupational benefit plan, also called pension fund or 2nd pillar, provides, among other things, for the accumulation of a retirement pension as well as financial security in the event of disability and for surviving dependents in the event of death. Together with the 1st pillar (see social insurances), the pension fund covers about 60 % of the last salary. A 3rd pillar, also referred to as private pension, should definitely be taken out if the accustomed standard of living should be continued after retirement.
BVG contributions must be paid for employees with a gross salary of at least CHF 21'510.- or CHF 1'792.50 per month and an employment contract duration of at least 3 months. The employer takes care of the choice of the insurance company himself and pays at least 50 % of the contributions for the insurance.
3. Accident insurance (UVG)
All employees who are employed must be compulsorily insured against occupational accident. From 8 hours per week, non-occupational accident insurance is also mandatory. We will be happy to explain everything you need to know and together we will find the right insurance for you and your employees.
What other insurances are there for companies?
1. Daily sickness benefit insurance (KTG)
If you or your employees are unable to work due to illness, serious financial consequences can arise. Daily sickness benefit insurance protects you and your employees against this risk. It covers the insured salary for up to 2 years in the form of daily benefits.
2. Business owner insurance
Business owner insurance is the optimal solution for self-employed persons to protect themselves against the financial consequences of illness or accident. Thanks to a personalized daily allowance, which is insured, they do not have to worry about their income in case of an emergency. In addition, medical expenses as well as a lump sum in case of disability or death benefit for surviving dependents can be included. Although business owner insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for self-employed persons.
3. Inventory or property insurance
Inventory insurance is worthwhile because it protects inventory, goods and equipment against natural hazards and other unforeseen events. In addition, such insurances often cover loss of sales due to business interruptions, which is often the result of damage caused by natural hazards. The insurance also covers furniture, utensils, machinery and IT equipment and protects your company from financial consequences. The insurance is not required by law, but especially production companies and larger enterprises should not do without it.
4. Liability insurance
If third parties suffer damage due to your company or your employees, your company is liable with all its assets. With this insurance you can protect yourself against these risks. The liability insurance takes over the financial consequences in case of justified claims for damages and also takes care of the defense in case of unjustified claims.
5. Legal protection insurance
Legal protection insurance supports your company in legal cases, for example if you have disputes with employees or customers, answers questions about tenancy law and other issues, and fights together with you for your rights. Voluntary legal protection insurance is highly recommended, as it assumes the financial risk for legal cases and acts as a direct contact person for legal questions.
Have you recently established a business? Or would you like to have your current insurance coverage reviewed and receive competent advice from experts? We will be happy to advise you on all matters relating to company insurance. Contact us now!
