Old-age and survivors insurance

Swiss old-age and survivors insurance, commonly known as AHV/AVS, is the central first-pillar scheme. It is mandatory for most persons living or working in Switzerland and is financed mainly through contributions and public funds. The scheme pays retirement pensions and survivors’ benefits, with amounts influenced by contribution years and relevant income. It interacts with disability insurance, supplementary benefits, occupational pensions and international coordination rules. Employers, self-employed persons and non-working persons may all have contribution duties under the applicable rules.