Health insurance premium subsidy in Switzerland (2026)
Who qualifies for the LAMal premium reduction, how to apply, and how to combine it with a cheaper insurer. Find your canton's process below.
What is the premium subsidy?
The premium subsidy (individual premium reduction, IPR) is cantonal support, co-financed by the Confederation, that reduces your basic (LAMal) premium partly or fully. It targets low- and middle-income households. Over 30% of Swiss insured people receive it. It is a right, not a favour — many eligible people simply never apply because they don't know they qualify.
Who qualifies?
Eligibility depends on your taxable income, your wealth and your household size. Each canton sets its own thresholds, so conditions differ widely. Families with children and young adults in education are often prioritised. Check carefully, as many insured people qualify without knowing. A no-obligation calculation quickly clarifies your situation.
How to apply
You apply to the competent cantonal office (compensation fund or cantonal health-insurance service) of your canton of residence. Depending on the canton, the right is calculated automatically from your tax return, or requires an active application before a deadline. Don't miss these deadlines, or you lose the right for the year.
Combine the subsidy with a cheaper insurer
The subsidy reduces what you pay, but premiums vary a lot between insurers even though basic (LAMal) cover is identical by law. The smart move: compare premiums first, choose the cheapest insurer, then claim your subsidy. The two savings add up.
The subsidy in your canton
Each of the 26 cantons runs the premium subsidy independently, with its own thresholds, deadlines and application process. What applies in Zurich differs from Bern, Vaud or Ticino. Pick your canton of residence to find the exact conditions, the competent office and the right application route.
FAQ
What is the health insurance premium subsidy?
The premium subsidy (individual premium reduction, IPR) is cantonal support co-financed by the Confederation. It reduces your basic (LAMal) premium partly or fully and targets low- and middle-income households.
Who qualifies for the premium subsidy?
Your taxable income, wealth and household size are decisive. Each canton sets its own thresholds. Many insured people qualify without knowing — a free, no-obligation calculation shows your situation.
How do I apply for the premium subsidy?
Apply to the competent cantonal office (compensation fund or cantonal health-insurance service). Depending on the canton, the right is automatic from your tax return or requires an active application within a deadline.
Can I combine the subsidy with a cheaper insurer?
Yes. Choose the cheapest insurer for basic (LAMal) cover — for instance with an HMO, family-doctor or Telmed model — then claim your subsidy. The two savings add up.
The subsidy in your canton
Each canton has its own thresholds and process — pick yours: